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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global innovation projects and develop breakthrough product strategies.
- Company: Join a leading global FMCG manufacturer focused on growth and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working arrangements and the chance to work with diverse teams.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in product development with a strong social impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in product innovation, especially in savoury snacks, is preferred.
- Other info: This role requires collaboration across cultures and functions, ideal for innovative thinkers.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
A global FMCG Manufacturer is currently recruiting for a Global Head of Product Development Innovation / Global Innovation Manager / Global Head of NPD to be responsible for developing and delivering growth for the business. The Global Head of Product Development Innovation / Global Innovation Manager / Global Head of NPD will manage high value global innovation projects in their category, delivering projects and products in line with our growth strategy and critical consumer demand spaces.
This role will be site based at least 3 days per week with flexibility.
The role requires an individual adept at multi-cultural cross-functional/country collaboration and who can work effectively with external partners to identify appropriate opportunities and drive development of innovative solutions, best practice approaches & systems and a high-performing matrix team. Experience in a product innovation role across savoury snacks will be deemed advantageous.
Global Head of Product Development Innovation responsibilities include:
- Influence the global growth strategic plan, working as cross-functional and cross-regional partners to develop product development strategies.
- This is a senior role responsible for leading the team to develop and deliver against an ambitious and transformational breakthrough product strategy that is aligned to the growth ambition and sustainability aspirations of the company.
- Work very closely with their counterparts in Global Growth and Supply Chain to effectively deliver the joint growth and transformation agenda and ensure balanced focus on the productivity and sustainability deliverables.
- Utilize consumer, customer, and competitor insights to develop an innovation growth funnel, drive global breakthrough projects, define and deliver a technology roadmap, ensure annual breakthrough project delivery, and lead a team of scientists and engineers for effective resource management.
- Collaborate with Growth, FEI, and Global Procurement teams to develop effective briefs, manage supplier innovation, build strong partnerships, assess new ingredients and technology, and ensure cross-functional collaboration for successful plan delivery and resource allocation.
- Ensure technical rigour and effective risk management in project delivery, manage a portfolio of complex projects, and oversee the end-to-end NPD process while monitoring external trends and competitor moves. Lead the team by exemplifying high standards, collaborate closely with marketing and consumer insight teams, and ensure robust product specifications and quality standards.
- Understand and align development with operational capabilities, manage cost centres, support cost-saving initiatives, define product characteristics, review project charters, recommend profitable product changes, and build a robust budget for effective resourcing and OPEX requirements.
To apply please email a CV.
Contact Detail:
D R Newitt & Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Head of Product Development Innovation
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the FMCG sector, especially those involved in product development and innovation. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in savoury snacks.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the company's current product lines and recent innovations. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding of their growth strategy and how you can contribute to it during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing cross-functional teams and driving innovation projects. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to leverage consumer insights and market trends in your previous roles. Highlight any successful strategies you've implemented that align with sustainability and productivity, as these are key focus areas for the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Head of Product Development Innovation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in product development and innovation, especially in the FMCG sector. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage high-value projects and lead cross-functional teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your passion for product innovation and your understanding of the company's growth strategy. Mention how your skills align with their needs and provide examples of past successes in similar roles.
Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration: Emphasise your experience working with diverse teams across different regions and functions. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with external partners to drive innovation and achieve business goals.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: Demonstrate your ability to influence strategic plans by discussing your experience in developing product strategies that align with company ambitions. Include insights on how you have used consumer and market data to inform your decisions.
How to prepare for a job interview at D R Newitt & Associates
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a candidate for the Global Head of Product Development Innovation, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to influence and shape strategic plans. Prepare examples of how you've successfully developed product strategies in previous roles, particularly in a cross-functional environment.
✨Highlight Cross-Cultural Collaboration Skills
This role requires adeptness in multi-cultural collaboration. Be ready to discuss your experiences working with diverse teams across different regions and how you navigated challenges to achieve common goals.
✨Demonstrate Technical Expertise
Given the technical nature of this position, ensure you can speak confidently about your experience with product innovation, especially in savoury snacks. Prepare to discuss specific projects where you applied technical knowledge to drive successful outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and risk management capabilities. Think of examples where you managed complex projects, dealt with unexpected challenges, and how you ensured project delivery while maintaining quality standards.
