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- Tasks: Lead innovative product development in a fast-paced poultry and party food business.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on delivering cutting-edge food solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid work options, and 25 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative environment that values innovation and teamwork.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in NPD, degree in Food Technology, and experience with UK retailers required.
- Other info: Passion for food innovation and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Direct message the job poster from The Lanes Group
Senior Recruitment Consultant at The Lanes Group
New Product Development (NPD) Manager – Poultry & Party Food Business
Are you a driven and independent professional with a passion for innovation? We are looking for a proactive and strategic NPD Manager to join our dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment, delivering cutting-edge solutions in the poultry and party food sector.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development of new products, from initial customer briefs and tenders to Blue-Sky Innovation.
- Collaborate with manufacturing sites, suppliers, and UK customers to bring new products to life.
- Work closely with the Commercial and Technical teams to ensure alignment and keep all stakeholders informed.
- Assist the commercial team with presentations, submission sheets, product cooking, and panels.
- Coordinate sampling between suppliers and customers.
- Ensure all products meet customer QAS standards.
- Conduct market research, including competitor benchmarking and regular store visits.
- Participate in product consistency panel reviews, both internally and with customers.
- Oversee artwork sign-off and packaging coordination.
- Keep project trackers updated and manage the Critical Path.
- Ensure all BRC processes are followed, and products are entered into the product matrix before launch.
- Maintain accurate and timely internal administration.
Requirements:
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience (5+ preferred) in a similar NPD or product development role.
- A degree in Food Technology or a related field.
- Experience working with major UK retailers (e.g., Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Morrisons).
- Strong knowledge of the breaded chicken and/or party food/snack food categories.
- A positive, self-motivated, and ambitious attitude.
- Strong strategic thinking and attention to detail.
- Excellent time management and organizational skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication abilities, across all levels.
- Full driving license (as client locations may be in areas not easily accessed by public transport).
Company Benefits:
- 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (increases with service).
- Hybrid working options after probation (3 days in-office, 2 days home).
- Contributory Pension scheme.
- Life Assurance.
- Group Income Protection.
- Wellbeing benefits, including Private Health Insurance, Healthcare Cash Plan, and Employee Assistance Programme.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
If you are passionate about food innovation, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are looking for an exciting new challenge, we want to hear from you!
Apply now to join our team and be part of our continued success in the food industry.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Product Management
Industries
Food and Beverage Manufacturing
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New Product Development Manager employer: The Lanes Group
Contact Detail:
The Lanes Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land New Product Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest trends in the poultry and party food sectors. Understanding current market demands and innovations will help you stand out as a candidate who is not only knowledgeable but also passionate about the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food technology field, especially those who have experience with major UK retailers. Building connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of successful product development projects you've led. Highlighting your strategic thinking and ability to collaborate with various teams will demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on BRC processes and quality assurance standards relevant to the food industry. Showing that you are well-versed in these areas will reassure us of your capability to maintain high product standards.
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 new product development, especially in the poultry and party food sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic thinking and innovation skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food innovation and your ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. Mention your experience with major UK retailers and how it aligns with the company's goals.
Highlight Key Skills: Emphasize your strong interpersonal and communication abilities, as well as your time management and organizational skills. These are crucial for collaborating with various teams and managing multiple projects.
Showcase Market Research Experience: Include any experience you have with market research, competitor benchmarking, or product consistency reviews. This will demonstrate your ability to understand market trends and customer needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Lanes Group
✨Show Your Passion for Innovation
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for food innovation during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to new product development in the past, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss your strategic approach to product development. Highlight any experiences where you successfully aligned teams and stakeholders to achieve project goals, particularly in collaboration with commercial and technical teams.
✨Know the Market
Research the poultry and party food sectors thoroughly. Be ready to discuss current trends, competitor products, and customer preferences. This knowledge will show that you're proactive and well-prepared.
✨Highlight Your Organizational Skills
Since the role requires excellent time management and organizational skills, be prepared to share examples of how you've managed multiple projects simultaneously. Discuss how you keep track of project timelines and ensure all processes are followed.
