At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting product and packaging innovation projects from ideation to execution.
- Company: GU Desserts, a passionate brand creating indulgent desserts.
- Benefits: 27 days holiday, enhanced maternity/paternity, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a team that values food trends and consumer-led innovation.
- Why this job: Shape new dessert experiences in a collaborative and creative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in product innovation and strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
At GU Desserts, we’re passionate about creating indulgent, high-quality desserts that our customers love. We’re looking for an experienced and creative Innovation Manager to join our team and lead exciting product and packaging innovation projects from ideation to execution. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives on turning consumer insight into commercially successful products, while working cross‑functionally to deliver innovation that is desirable, feasible, scalable, and aligned with our brand vision.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead end‑to‑end NPD/EPD and packaging projects, ensuring delivery on time and within budget.
- Transform consumer insights, category trends, and market research into compelling product concepts.
- Conduct store visits, competitor reviews, and trend analysis to identify new innovation opportunities.
- Write engaging concept papers and kitchen briefs that bring ideas to life for internal teams.
- Assess technical and commercial feasibility, support prototype development, and help define scalable manufacturing solutions.
- Drive projects through the stage‑gate process, ensuring all innovation activity meets required milestones and criteria.
- Craft compelling stories and presentations that inspire both internal and external stakeholders.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in product innovation, NPD/EPD, or a related role.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Commercially aware with experience in business case development and financial assessment.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to turn insights into actionable concepts.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
- A passion for food innovation and creating products consumers genuinely love.
The Mindset You’ll Bring
- Pioneering – always exploring emerging trends, ingredients, and ideas.
- Accountable – committed to delivering results and meeting deadlines.
- Collaborative – able to align teams behind a clear vision.
- Considerate – mindful of others while maintaining momentum.
- Energetic – enthusiastic, proactive, and driven in a fast‑paced environment.
Why Join GU?
At GU Desserts, innovation sits at the heart of what we do. You’ll have the opportunity to shape exciting new dessert experiences for a much‑loved brand, working with passionate teams in a collaborative and creative environment. If you’re excited by food trends, consumer‑led innovation, and bringing bold ideas to life, we’d love to hear from you.
Benefits
- 27 days holiday.
- Increased holiday with length of service.
- Option to buy more holiday.
- Enhanced maternity/paternity (Maternity is 6 months full pay after 2 years of service. 3 months full for 1-2 years).
- Free Gu.
- Flexi week opportunity every year.
- Cycle to work.
- Westfield Health Medical Cash Plan.
- Mortgage support.
- Nursery support.
- Grocery Aid support.
- Summer Fridays and December Fridays (finish at 1pm).
- Death in benefit service (Metlife Master trust).
Innovation Manager employer: Gü Desserts | Certified B Corp
GU Desserts is an exceptional employer that places innovation at the core of its operations, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Shepherd's Bush. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the chance to lead exciting product innovations while enjoying generous benefits such as 27 days of holiday, enhanced parental leave, and unique perks like Summer Fridays. Join a passionate team dedicated to creating delightful dessert experiences and thrive in a culture that values creativity and accountability.
Contact Detail:
Gü Desserts | Certified B Corp Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovation Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues 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
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance to present your ideas, make sure to craft compelling stories that highlight your innovative thinking. Use visuals and examples to bring your concepts to life and impress those stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay on top of trends! Keep an eye on emerging food trends and consumer insights. This will not only help you in interviews but also show that you're passionate about innovation and ready to bring fresh ideas to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining GU Desserts and being part of our innovative journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Innovation:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for food innovation shine through! We want to see how you can turn consumer insights into exciting product ideas that align with our brand vision.
Be Clear and Concise:Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Highlight your relevant experience in product innovation and project management without waffling on. We appreciate clarity!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Innovation Manager role. Show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gü Desserts | Certified B Corp
✨Know Your Innovation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in food innovation and product development. Be ready to discuss how you've turned consumer insights into successful products in the past. This will show that you're not just passionate about desserts, but also knowledgeable about what makes them tick!
✨Show Off Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've managed multiple projects simultaneously. Highlight your ability to meet deadlines and stay within budget. GU Desserts is looking for someone who can juggle tasks like a pro, so come armed with specific stories that demonstrate your project management prowess.
✨Craft Compelling Stories
Think about how you can present your ideas in an engaging way. Practice telling stories about your previous projects that inspire and captivate. Remember, GU Desserts wants someone who can craft compelling narratives that resonate with both internal teams and external stakeholders.
✨Be Collaborative and Energetic
During the interview, showcase your collaborative spirit and enthusiasm for working in a team. Share examples of how you've aligned teams behind a vision or driven projects forward in a fast-paced environment. GU Desserts values energy and a proactive mindset, so let that shine through!
