Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting product development projects from concept to launch in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a successful family-owned company that values innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Earn up to £45,000, enjoy 25 days holiday, and receive full training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by developing new products and optimising processes in a thriving industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in New Product Development and a qualification in Food Science or related field.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for career progression in a supportive team.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
My client is a successful family‑owned company, with turnover in the Billions that is a market leader in their industry. Their success has come from empowering hands‑on, pragmatic individuals within a dynamic, solution‑seeking and market‑share winning organisation. They have experienced rapid growth over the last 6 years and have an ambitious investment plan for the next 2‑5 years.
Job Description:
- Coordinate development from concept through to final launch.
- Be a pivotal contact between all departments to ensure a smooth launch of new products or changes in the factory.
- Develop recipes and products, conduct hands‑on development work from initial kitchen trials to industrial trials, including organoleptic assessment (tasting).
- Manage the organisation of the industrial trials, communicate the results, actions/improvements to be carried out and follow up on them.
- Ensure the products will be produced under normal conditions on the current equipment, raise and communicate any concerns about possible difficulties.
- Provide hands‑on training when running factory trials to the production team.
- Understand and know how to use the pilot plant and development lab, suggest improvements and notify breakdowns/malfunctions.
- Support the production team with product and process expertise when necessary.
- Be the main point of contact for customers regarding development, optimisation and improvement projects from brief to launch and other queries about products, processes and packaging.
- Act as the Development technical expert to influence customer briefs by offering insight into feasibility and factory capabilities.
- Conduct face-to-face presentations to customers either at their head office or on-site to explain the business model, development capabilities and technical advantages.
- Oversee costings and make price recommendations to the Commercial Director.
- Lead and coordinate all product-related projects - from initial customer brief through development, trials, artwork, factory validation, and final launch.
- Manage end-to-end artwork development, internally and externally, ensuring the right process and legal checks through to sign off for development projects and design or legal updates.
Monday - Friday - Days (Onsite). Flexibility required in this position.
The Successful Applicant:
- You will be an experienced New Product Development specialist from a manufacturing background, along with the following:
- Recognised qualification in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline.
- Automated environment experience would be beneficial.
- Food experience is a must (Dairy would be advantageous).
- Proven record in project management.
- Hands-on attitude and flexible approach to the job.
What's on Offer:
- Up to £45,000/annum
- 25 Days holiday + Bank Holidays
- Company sick pay
- 4 x death in service
- Pension 6%
- Full training given
NPD Project Manager employer: Michael Page (UK)
Contact Detail:
Michael Page (UK) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land NPD Project Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that NPD Project Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your hands-on experience. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and really impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We suggest mentioning something specific from your conversation to make it personal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are ready to jump into the exciting world of product development.
We think you need these skills to ace NPD Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the NPD Project Manager role. Highlight your hands-on experience in product development and project management, as these are key to impressing us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about new product development and how your background aligns with our dynamic, solution-seeking culture. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on specific projects you've managed or contributed to, especially in food science or technology. We want to see your hands-on attitude and how you’ve tackled challenges in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page (UK)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of food science and technology, especially if you have experience in dairy. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've managed and how you tackled challenges in product development.
✨Show Your Hands-On Experience
Since this role requires a hands-on attitude, be prepared to share examples of your practical work in the kitchen or during industrial trials. Highlight any specific recipes or products you've developed and the outcomes of those projects.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a pivotal contact between departments, strong communication skills are key. Practice explaining complex ideas simply and clearly, as you may need to present to customers or collaborate with various teams.
✨Be Solution-Oriented
This company values dynamic, solution-seeking individuals. Think of examples where you've identified problems and implemented effective solutions in your previous roles. Show them that you're proactive and can think on your feet!
