At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of exciting new products from concept to shelf.
- Company: Hawkstone, a rapidly expanding brand in the drinks industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Join a passionate team driving expansion into new markets and categories.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovation in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in product development and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 59400 - 72600 £ per year.
You'll build the pipeline that's currently missing at Hawkstone, and take ownership of turning ideas into products on shelf.
Hawkstone is going through a major period of expansion - a comprehensive brand and packaging refresh, new can formats, an expanding range of ready-to-drink cocktails, and a first move into low and no-alcohol, alongside international growth already underway across the EU and Ireland with more markets on the horizon.
Right now, new product ideas come from across the business, and it falls to a small team to coordinate everything from artwork to co-packers on top of the day job.
You'll bring structure and pace to how ideas become products on shelf, without losing the entrepreneurial energy that makes this business move fast.
About the Team
You'll work across commercial, supply chain, quality, logistics, finance and marketing to keep every launch on track, alongside the operational and supply chain team on relationships with co-packers, new suppliers and packaging partners.
What you'll do
- Own end-to-end delivery of new products and formats - cans, bottles, kegs, pouches, RTD cocktails and emerging categories - from concept through to launch.
- Build a stage-and-gate process for NPD, introducing structure to de-risk delivery without slowing the business down.
- Coordinate cross-functionally across commercial, supply chain, quality, logistics, finance and marketing to keep every launch on track, including secondary packaging projects like new outer casing for international markets.
- Alongside the operational and supply chain team, manage relationships with co-packers, new suppliers and packaging partners.
- Assess the viability and supply chain impact of new ideas - validating what's realistic, and by when - rather than taking every brief at face value.
- Support Hawkstone's expansion into new markets, adapting formats and processes accordingly.
- Act as the critical link between the creative and commercial vision and practical, on-time delivery.
- What you'll bring to the team
- Proven experience in NPD, innovation delivery or launch management within food, drink or FMCG, with a track record of managing multiple product launches across different formats and packaging types simultaneously.
- Strong cross-functional stakeholder management - comfortable influencing without direct authority, holding senior stakeholders to a gate, and confident challenging when something isn't feasible while still working towards an outcome that meets the original need as best as possible.
- Experience operating in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial or scale-up environment, with the judgement to introduce process gradually and bring people with you rather than impose bureaucracy.
- A genuinely independent operator, able to take ownership of a broad, sometimes unpredictable remit from day one.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior NPD Manager employer: Impact Evolve
At IMPACT EVOLVE, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant work culture that encourages creativity and innovation. As a Destination Venue Leader at College Farm, you'll not only have the chance to shape an exciting hospitality experience in the stunning Cotswolds but also benefit from extensive employee growth opportunities and a supportive team environment that values your entrepreneurial spirit.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior NPD Manager
✨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 Impact Evolve.
✨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 Impact Evolve!
✨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 Impact Evolve, 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 Impact Evolve, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior NPD Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Impact Evolve, 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 Impact Evolve.
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 Impact Evolve. 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 Impact Evolve. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Impact Evolve
✨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 Impact Evolve’s mission.
