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 backgrounds; applications accepted until 31st July 2026.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving product innovation and improvement in a fast-paced setting.
- 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.
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 Lanark 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 and access to mental health support services, ensuring that our team thrives both personally and professionally. Join us to lead innovative product development in a collaborative atmosphere where your contributions will directly impact our award-winning brand.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land New Product Development (NPD) Manager in Lanark
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their values and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the Border Biscuits team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the NPD Manager role. Highlight your product development successes and how you can contribute to the innovative spirit at Border Biscuits.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our deliciously creative team.
We think you need these skills to ace New Product Development (NPD) Manager in Lanark
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Product Development:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for new product development shine through. Share specific examples of your past experiences that highlight your creativity and innovation in bringing products to life.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs at Border Biscuits, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official recruitment channel! This ensures that your application gets to the right place and helps us keep track of all candidates efficiently. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Border Biscuits Ltd
✨Know Your Biscuits
Before the interview, dive deep into Border Biscuits' product range. Familiarise yourself with their best-sellers and any recent launches. This will not only show your enthusiasm for the brand but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their product development goals.
✨Showcase Your NPD Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led product development projects. Highlight your ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution, as this is crucial for the NPD Manager role.
✨Understand Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with various teams, be ready to discuss how you've effectively collaborated across departments in previous positions. Share instances where your teamwork led to successful product launches or improvements.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Brush up on your knowledge of food science and product development processes. Expect questions about quality control, compliance, and risk management. Demonstrating your technical expertise will reassure them that you can handle the responsibilities of the role.
