Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead new product development from concept to production, ensuring seamless integration and compliance.
- Company: Join a leading drinks manufacturer known for innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, supportive team environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape iconic brands while working in a dynamic, collaborative atmosphere focused on continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in NPI/NPD within drinks or FMCG, strong project management, and packaging knowledge required.
- Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your input and creativity.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Nine Twenty Engineering & Manufacturing are delighted to be supporting a leading player in the drinks manufacturing sector in their search for an NPI/NPD Manager. This is a fantastic opportunity for a driven professional to take ownership of new product introduction, packaging development, and master data management for a highly respected and forward-thinking organisation in the industry.
The Role
This is a cross-functional and high-impact role responsible for the end-to-end delivery of new products, from concept through to production, ensuring seamless manufacturing integration, regulatory compliance, and data integrity. You will collaborate across departments including marketing, procurement, production, and supply chain to ensure new product launches are delivered successfully, old products are phased out effectively, and packaging solutions meet evolving sustainability and productivity demands.
Key Responsibilities
- New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Lead cross-functional teams to deliver NPI & change projects on time and within scope.
- Champion process discipline and educate marketing/design teams on technical constraints and opportunities.
- Oversee procurement coordination, dry goods sourcing, and timeline management.
- Track and report NPI progress, highlighting risks, roadblocks, and opportunities.
- Collaborate with supply and demand to manage product lifecycle transitions.
- New Product Development & Packaging
- Design and implement packaging that aligns with cost, sustainability, and technical requirements.
- Liaise with suppliers, designers, and production teams to ensure packaging is fit-for-purpose.
- Oversee testing, regulatory compliance, and packaging innovation initiatives.
- Master Data Management
- Maintain accuracy across all product-related master data (BOMs, specs, pricing, etc.).
- Implement best practices in data governance and system optimisation.
Essential Experience
- NPI/NPD project experience within the drinks or FMCG manufacturing industry (spirits highly desirable but would consider candidates from outwith).
- Strong background in packaging technologies, materials, and bottling operations.
- Proven experience managing cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders.
- Proficient with ERP systems (AS400 or similar), Excel, and MS Office Suite.
- Strong organisational, communication, and reporting skills.
What We’re Looking For
- A proactive, pragmatic problem-solver with the confidence to lead and influence.
- Someone resilient, detail-oriented, and able to manage conflicting priorities.
- A natural collaborator who can bring structure, clarity, and momentum to complex projects.
Why Apply?
- Join a business that values innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
- Be a key player in shaping the future of iconic brands and new product lines.
- Work with a high-performing, supportive, and passionate team in a dynamic environment.
Interested? Apply today or contact Caroline Strachan: cstrachan@weareninetwenty.com 07825 450 978. We’re proud to support our client and here to guide you through every step of the process.
New Product Development Manager employer: Nine Twenty Engineering & Manufacturing
Contact Detail:
Nine Twenty Engineering & Manufacturing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land New Product Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the drinks manufacturing sector, especially around sustainability and packaging innovations. This knowledge will not only help you stand out during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the FMCG and drinks industry through platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with industry groups or attending relevant events can provide valuable insights and connections that may lead to referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience managing cross-functional projects. Highlight how you've successfully navigated challenges and collaborated with various teams, as this is crucial for the NPI/NPD Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent product launches and their approach to innovation. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their products and strategies during your interview will show that you're proactive and truly interested in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace New Product Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in NPI/NPD, particularly within the drinks or FMCG manufacturing sectors. Emphasise your project management skills and any specific achievements related to product development and packaging.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for innovation and sustainability in product development. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams and managed complex projects in the past.
Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly outline your proficiency with ERP systems, Excel, and MS Office Suite in your application. If you have experience with packaging technologies and materials, make sure to include that as well.
Showcase Collaboration Experience: In your application, provide examples of how you've effectively collaborated with various departments such as marketing, procurement, and production. This will demonstrate your ability to work cross-functionally, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nine Twenty Engineering & Manufacturing
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the NPI/NPD Manager role. Familiarise yourself with new product introduction processes, packaging development, and master data management. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Cross-Functional Collaboration
Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to work across various departments like marketing, procurement, and production. Highlight specific projects where you successfully led cross-functional teams to deliver results.
✨Emphasise Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. The company is looking for a proactive problem-solver, so share instances where your solutions made a significant impact.
✨Familiarise with Industry Trends
Research current trends in the drinks manufacturing sector, especially around sustainability and packaging innovations. Being knowledgeable about industry developments will show your passion and commitment to the role.
