New Product Development Manager
On-site, full-time (easy driving distance from Epping, Cheshunt & Bishops Stortford)
About the Opportunity
A fast-growing consumer brand in the lifestyle, sporting goods and tech/gaming accessories space is seeking a
New Product Development Manager
to lead the creation of innovative, market-leading products. This is a pivotal role, overseeing the full product lifecycle β from concept and prototyping through to launch β and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with commercial goals.
The Role
As New Product Development Manager, you will:
- Introduce and execute a rolling three-year product development pipeline
- Manage the full NPD process: concept, sampling, prototyping, and sign-off
- Collaborate with UK design teams and overseas suppliers to deliver technical development
- Conduct supplier research and sourcing to enhance product offerings
- Define and manage project timelines, ensuring milestones are met
- Oversee packaging sign-off and compliance with UK/EU standards (UKCA, CE, WEEE)
- Partner with marketing, sales and supply chain to deliver best-in-class launches
- Manage costs, pricing, and multi-currency price books, ensuring commercial alignment
- Analyse market trends, customer needs and competitor activity to identify opportunities
- Forecast demand, track product performance post-launch, and optimise the pipeline
- Present insights and recommendations to support future product planning
What We\βre Looking For
- Proven experience in product management and project management, ideally in consumer goods or sports/lifestyle sectors
- Strong track record of delivering a three-year product pipeline
- Hands-on experience across the full product lifecycle, from concept to launch
- Commercially astute with strong forecasting and pricing knowledge
- Skilled at managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
- Confident communicator, able to work effectively with cross-functional teams and overseas suppliers
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable strategies
- Knowledge of compliance requirements across UK/EU/ROW markets
- Experience with physical product development is essential
What\βs on Offer
- The chance to drive innovation across a varied and exciting product range
- A collaborative, cross-functional commercial team environment
- The opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic, growth-focused business
Locations
Epping
England
Contact Detail:
Illuminate Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team