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 benefits, a cycle to work scheme, and bonuses for your hard work.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in continuous improvement initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product innovation while working with a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience in FMCG or similar sectors, with strong project management skills.
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 @Smart4 Sciences.
NPD / Project Manager - Household - Worcestershire | Site-Based employer: Smart4Sciences
Join a dynamic and innovative manufacturing business in Worcestershire, where your role as an NPD / Project Manager will not only drive product development but also foster a collaborative work culture that values employee growth and creativity. With a strong focus on continuous improvement and a supportive team environment, you'll have the opportunity to make a significant impact while enjoying comprehensive benefits such as Bupa EAP, death in service cover, and a cycle to work scheme.
StudySmarter Expert Adviceπ€«
We think this is how you could land NPD / Project Manager - Household - Worcestershire | Site-Based
β¨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!
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their recent innovations and challenges. This will help you showcase your knowledge and passion during the interview.
β¨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering competency questions. Think of specific situations where you've demonstrated your project management skills, especially in fast-paced environments like manufacturing.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace NPD / Project Manager - Household - Worcestershire | Site-Based
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the NPD / Project Manager role. Highlight your experience in FMCG and product development, as well as any relevant technical projects you've been involved in.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've managed projects from concept to launch and how youβve collaborated with different teams.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong communication is key in this role, make sure your application demonstrates your ability to convey ideas clearly. Use concise language and structure your application well to reflect your organisational skills.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you donβt miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart4Sciences
β¨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 highlight any specific examples that showcase your experience in coordinating with various teams.
β¨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 the legal landscape.
β¨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience managing multiple stakeholders. Think of specific instances where you successfully navigated differing priorities or resolved conflicts. This will illustrate your ability to keep projects on track while maintaining strong relationships across departments.
β¨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Be ready to discuss how you've identified opportunities for continuous improvement in past roles. Share examples of how you've implemented changes that enhanced product quality or streamlined processes. This will highlight your proactive approach and commitment to innovation.