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: Be part of a fast-paced team that values collaboration and creativity.
- 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.
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
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific project management tools and methodologies mentioned in the job description, such as stage gate processes and RAID logs. Being able to discuss these tools confidently during your interview will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the branded food manufacturing industry and the company’s recent projects or product launches. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples from your past experience that highlight your ability to manage cross-functional teams and deliver projects under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the FMCG and food manufacturing sectors, either through LinkedIn or industry events. Building connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals for the Project Manager position.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant project management experience, especially in FMCG or food manufacturing. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage projects from start to finish.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description, such as risk management and stakeholder engagement.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your proficiency with project management tools like MS Project and Office 365. Highlight your organisational skills and detail-oriented approach, as these are crucial for managing multiple projects effectively.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Think about how you would respond to questions regarding your experience with NPD/EPD processes and your approach to overcoming challenges in project delivery. Being prepared will help you stand out during the interview process.
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 closely 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 early or manage changes in project scope, and explain how you navigated those challenges.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools and Processes
Brush up on the tools mentioned in the job description, like MS Project and Office 365. Be ready to discuss how you've used similar tools in past projects to manage timelines, documentation, and communication effectively.