At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting projects from new product launches to key business initiatives.
- Company: Join a renowned branded food business known for quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working with 2 days in the office and 3 at home.
- Why this job: Perfect for those who thrive under pressure and love cross-functional teamwork.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management, ideally in FMCG or food manufacturing.
- Other info: This is a full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract role.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Manchester (Hybrid: 2 days office vs 3 at home)
Branded Food Manufacturing Business
Full-time | 12-Month Fixed Term Contract
We’re working with a well-known branded food business that’s built a reputation for quality, innovation and collaboration. They’re now looking for an experienced Project Manager to join their fast-paced innovation team and help deliver a range of exciting projects — from new product launches to wider business initiatives.
This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who enjoys cross-functional working, thrives under pressure, and can confidently lead projects from kick-off through to launch.
The Role:
Reporting into the Strategic PMO Lead, you’ll take responsibility for the delivery of EPD, NPD and other key business projects — making sure everything runs smoothly, stays on track, and meets commercial goals. It’s a broad role that covers planning, risk management, stakeholder alignment, and post-launch reviews. You’ll work closely with teams across Marketing, Technical, Sales and Supply Chain, acting as the glue that keeps people, plans and priorities aligned.
Key responsibilities:
- Own the end-to-end project delivery process, using the business’s stage gate tools and templates.
- Prepare, track and update project documentation — including critical paths, RAID logs and stage-gate decks.
- Identify and escalate risks early, removing potential blockers before they become issues.
- Engage stakeholders across the business to ensure alignment and momentum throughout.
- Prepare teams for launch — making sure resource, timing and commercial readiness are all in place.
- Review projects post-launch, capturing lessons learned and helping shape future improvements.
- Work closely with Finance to ensure project costs are understood and controlled throughout.
What they’re looking for:
- A solid background in project management, ideally within FMCG, consumer goods or food manufacturing.
- Someone who’s confident with process but comfortable adapting to change.
- A strong communicator who can build relationships and influence at all levels.
- Highly organised and detail-focused, with good time management and a proactive mindset.
- IT literate — confident using tools like PowerPoint, MS Project and Office 365.
- A team player who’s happy to challenge when needed, and not afraid to push for delivery.
- Experience with NPD/EPD processes and cross-functional projects in a branded environment would be a real plus.
Project Manager (Manchester) employer: Better Placed Ltd - A Sunday Times Top 10 Employer!
Contact Detail:
Better Placed Ltd - A Sunday Times Top 10 Employer! Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager (Manchester)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific project management tools and methodologies used in the food manufacturing sector. Understanding stage gate processes and how to effectively manage RAID logs will give you a significant edge during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the FMCG and food manufacturing industries. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends, which can help you demonstrate your industry knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of past projects where you successfully led cross-functional teams. Be ready to discuss how you managed stakeholder alignment and overcame challenges, as this will showcase your ability to thrive under pressure.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent product launches and initiatives. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their projects and how you can contribute to future successes will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the business.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager (Manchester)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant project management experience, especially in FMCG or food manufacturing. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your experience with end-to-end project delivery and your ability to manage cross-functional teams. Share specific examples of successful projects you've led that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your IT skills, particularly with tools like PowerPoint, MS Project, and Office 365. Mention any experience you have with project documentation, risk management, and stakeholder engagement to show you can handle the role's demands.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a Project Manager.
How to prepare for a job interview at Better Placed Ltd - A Sunday Times Top 10 Employer!
✨Showcase Your Project Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous project management roles, especially in FMCG or food manufacturing. Highlight specific projects you've led, focusing on your approach to planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since the role involves working with various teams, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated across departments. Emphasise your ability to align different stakeholders and keep everyone on track towards common goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and adaptability. Prepare scenarios where you had to identify risks, manage changes, or overcome obstacles in a project, and explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools and Processes
Brush up on the tools mentioned in the job description, like PowerPoint and MS Project. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects, as well as your understanding of stage gate processes and documentation.