At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative product development from concept to launch in a dynamic food manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Border Biscuits, a multi-award-winning biscuit manufacturer with over 40 years of heritage.
- Benefits: Professional growth opportunities, supportive team, free counselling, and paid volunteering.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse candidates; applications accepted until 31st July 2026.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving product innovation and improvement in a creative team.
- Qualifications: Experience in product development within food manufacturing and strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: South Faulds Road, Lanark, Lanarkshire, Scotland ML11 7SR
About Us
Join our deliciously creative team at Border Biscuits, a renowned and leading multi award winning biscuit manufacturer based in the picturesque town of Lanark. With over 40 years of heritage, we craft the finest biscuits using traditional methods and quality ingredients. Our commitment to excellence has earned us numerous awards and a loyal customer base, making Border Biscuits a household name throughout the UK and beyond.
We are looking for a commercially aware and innovative NPD Manager to join our Brand team and lead the development of high-quality, commercially successful products from concept through to launch.
About You
You will bring strong product development experience, commercial awareness, and the ability to work across customer insight, technical execution, and cross-functional leadership. There will also be a need for organisational, collaborative and confidence balancing strategic thinking with firsthand delivery.
The Role
Reporting to the Senior Insights & Marketing Manager, the NPD Manager is accountable for leading the full product lifecycle, from identifying market opportunities through to delivering successful product launches. The role sits within the Brand team and works closely with the leadership, sales, finance, procurement, technical, production and the wider operational teams, as well as suppliers and innovation partners.
This role is responsible for shaping product direction, delivering concept-to-launch activity efficiently and to budget, improving product quality and performance, and ensuring compliance, quality and risk management throughout development and improvement activity.
The postholder will also support product improvement initiatives, define and assure critical quality parameters, minimise variation and defects, and contribute to the seamless transfer of products within capital investment plans.
How You Will Impact
You will define product vision, positioning, and success measures through the interpretation of consumer and customer insight, while leading cross-functional product development from concept through to launch. Collaborating closely with internal stakeholders, you will drive product improvement, support go-to-market planning, prepare launch materials and internal communications, and monitor product performance to support continuous improvement.
You will also perform defined duties within the Quality Management System, including Quality Control Points, sensory panels, artwork sign-off, root cause analysis, HACCP participation, and internal auditing. Success in this role requires strong ownership, good judgement, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced cross-functional environment.
What You Will Bring
- Proven experience and success in new product development and product management within food manufacturing or FMCG.
- Strong understanding of product development processes, manufacturing, and food products, supported by scientific and practical knowledge.
- Analytical mindset with commercial awareness, strong project management skills, and the ability to influence across teams.
- Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and other relevant tools.
- A degree or HNC in Food Science, Nutrition or a related discipline would be desirable.
What We Offer
- Opportunities for professional growth and access to development programs to enhance your skills.
- A dynamic and supportive working environment with a friendly team.
- Access to free counselling and support services for personal and professional support.
- Free 24/7 GP helpline.
- Optional salary sacrifice scheme.
- Paid volunteering opportunities within Lanark.
- The opportunity to lead innovation and product improvement activity in a collaborative food manufacturing environment.
If you are excited by the opportunity to lead product innovation in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply
To apply for the position of New Product Development (NPD) Manager at Border Biscuits, please submit your application through the relevant recruitment channel. Applications accepted until the closing date of 31st July 2026. We look forward to hearing from you! Please note that interviews will begin immediately for this role and therefore the role may be filled before the closing date.
At Border Biscuits, we are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further selection stages.
New Product Development (NPD) Manager in Cumbernauld employer: Border Biscuits Ltd
At Border Biscuits, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in the beautiful town of Lanark. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our professional development programmes, while our collaborative culture fosters innovation and creativity in product development. With unique benefits such as free counselling services and paid volunteering opportunities, we ensure that our team members feel valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact in the food manufacturing industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land New Product Development (NPD) Manager in Cumbernauld
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Border Biscuits Ltd.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Border Biscuits Ltd!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Border Biscuits Ltd, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Border Biscuits Ltd, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace New Product Development (NPD) Manager in Cumbernauld
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Border Biscuits Ltd, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Border Biscuits Ltd.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Border Biscuits Ltd. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Border Biscuits Ltd. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Border Biscuits Ltd
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Border Biscuits Ltd’s mission.
