At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting product development projects from concept to launch in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a growing FMCG manufacturing business focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy health perks, bonuses, and a supportive work culture that values your input.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career growth and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product innovation while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in FMCG or similar sectors, with strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
A growing manufacturing business within the FMCG and consumer chemicals sector is looking to appoint an experienced NPD / Project Manager to support ongoing product innovation and development activity across its expanding product portfolio. Working closely with the Technical Director, you’ll play a key role in driving projects from concept through to commercial launch, ensuring products are delivered efficiently, compliantly, and to the highest standards. The role also offers the opportunity to lead and develop a small technical team while collaborating with departments across the wider business. This position would suit someone who enjoys a varied and hands-on environment where no two projects are the same and where strong organisation, technical understanding, and stakeholder management are essential.
The Opportunity
- Manage the full lifecycle of new product development projects from brief through to launch
- Coordinate activity across technical, manufacturing, procurement, quality, packaging, and commercial teams
- Support formulation updates, product enhancements, and cost-saving initiatives
- Oversee manufacturing trials, pilot batches, and first production runs to ensure smooth scale-up activity
- Maintain compliance with relevant industry legislation and internal quality standards
- Ensure technical records, specifications, and supporting documentation are accurately maintained
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement across products, processes, and operational practices
- Provide guidance and support to junior members of the development team
What We’re Looking For
- Experience gained within FMCG, household products, cosmetics, detergents, chemicals, or a similar manufacturing environment
- Previous involvement in product development, technical projects, or formulation-led activities
- Strong ability to manage workloads, deadlines, and multiple stakeholders effectively
- Understanding of relevant regulations and compliance requirements including REACH, CLP, COSHH, and associated industry standards
- Confident communication skills with a proactive and solutions-focused approach
- Comfortable working within a fast-moving manufacturing setting where priorities can change quickly
- Knowledge of product trials, manufacturing processes, or commercialisation activities would be advantageous
Why Apply?
- Join a business continuing to invest in innovation and product development
- Work closely with senior leadership and contribute to key strategic projects
- Opportunity to make a visible impact within a collaborative and supportive team environment
- Genuine scope for involvement in continuous improvement and future product direction
Benefits
- Bupa EAP
- Death in Service cover from day one
- Digital health and wellbeing services
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Quarterly attendance bonus
- Internal incentive schemes
For more information or to apply, please send your CV to Rick Metcalfe at Smart4 Sciences.
New Product Development Manager employer: Smart4 Sciences
Join a dynamic and innovative manufacturing business in Worcestershire, where your role as a New Product Development Manager will not only allow you to lead exciting projects from concept to launch but also foster a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With a strong focus on continuous improvement and a supportive team environment, you'll have the opportunity to make a significant impact while enjoying a range of benefits including health services, a cycle to work scheme, and performance incentives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land New Product Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the FMCG and household products sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your previous NPD projects, especially those that involved cross-departmental collaboration. This will demonstrate your ability to manage multiple stakeholders effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you're interested in, don’t wait for them to post a job. Reach out directly through our website and express your interest in potential opportunities. It shows initiative!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant news and developments in product innovation and compliance regulations. This knowledge can give you an edge during interviews and show your passion for the field.
We think you need these skills to ace New Product Development 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 experience in FMCG or similar sectors, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects you've managed!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about product development and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of technical understanding, be sure to highlight your knowledge of regulations like REACH and COSHH. Mention any specific projects where you’ve successfully navigated compliance requirements.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart4 Sciences
✨Know Your Product Lifecycle
Make sure you understand the full lifecycle of product development, especially in the FMCG sector. Be ready to discuss how you've managed projects from concept to launch, and think of specific examples that showcase your experience in coordinating with various teams.
✨Brush Up on Compliance Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations like REACH, CLP, and COSHH. During the interview, demonstrate your understanding of these compliance requirements and how they impact product development. This will show that you're not just technically savvy but also aware of industry standards.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience managing multiple stakeholders. Think of instances where you successfully navigated differing priorities and how you kept everyone aligned. This is crucial for a role that involves collaboration across various departments.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Be ready to discuss how you've identified opportunities for continuous improvement in past roles. Share specific examples of how you've enhanced products or processes, as this aligns perfectly with the company's focus on innovation and efficiency.
