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- Tasks: Manage exciting product development projects from concept to launch in a dynamic food manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a multibillion-dollar global food manufacturer with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Why this job: Make an impact in food innovation while advancing your career in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Food Science and 1-2 years of NPD experience required.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career progression and personal development.
Location: Hertfordshire (primarily office-based with travel)
Salary: £32,000 - £35,000 depending on experience
Job Type: Full-time, permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Eligibility: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK (sponsorship not available)
About the Company
A multibillion-dollar global food manufacturing business supplying major retail and foodservice customers across international markets is seeking a motivated NPD Assistant Manager to join its growing UK team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced NPD professional to support end-to-end product development while working closely with commercial and technical teams in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. The role offers structured, steady career progression from NPD Technical level into Assistant Manager, with longer-term potential to develop into an NPD Manager position over time.
The Role
Reporting to the NPD Controller, you will manage product development projects from concept through to launch, ensuring critical paths are met and customer expectations are exceeded. You will collaborate across multiple internal teams and play a key role in customer communication and presentations. This is a customer-facing position where you will manage accounts end-to-end and present directly to customers.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee product development projects from initial concept to final launch
- Manage critical paths, ensuring timelines and processes are followed
- Communicate effectively with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders
- Act as key contact for customers on product-related matters
- Ensure BRC processes are followed and documentation is completed accurately
- Maintain product approvals and product matrix updates
- Work closely with Technical, Supply Chain, Commercial and Logistics teams
- Support preparation and delivery of customer presentations
- Monitor food trends, consumer insights and competitor activity
Ideal Candidate
- Currently working as an NPD Technologist or similar and ready for the next step
- Experience managing development timelines and cross-functional communication
- Comfortable presenting and liaising directly with customers
Essential Requirements
- Degree in Food Science or related discipline
- 1–2+ years’ experience in an NPD environment (food manufacturing)
- Strong interest in food trends and product innovation
- Excellent organisation, time management and attention to detail
- Full driving licence and willingness to travel (UK and international)
Desirable Experience
- Party food and/or coated chicken product experience
- Protein category experience
- Background in concept or process development
Working Environment
This is primarily an office-based and customer-facing role. While flexibility may be available where possible, the NPD team typically works on-site or travels due to the nature of the role. You will work closely with NPD, Commercial, Supply Chain, Logistics, Directors and Traders, managing customer accounts from concept through launch.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (rising to 27 days after 5 years and up to 30 days with service)
- Contributory pension
- Life assurance scheme, Private health insurance, Healthcare cash plan and Employee assistance programme
Recruitment Process
- Stage 1: Online interview with Hiring Manager and Head of HR
- Stage 2: Face-to-face interview with Hiring Manager and Director
Why Apply?
Join a stable global organisation committed to developing its people and supporting long-term career growth within a collaborative and innovative environment. Applications are welcomed from talented individuals of all backgrounds.
Assistant NPD Manager in Broxbourne employer: The Oval Partnership
Contact Detail:
The Oval Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant NPD Manager in Broxbourne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the food manufacturing industry, especially those who work in NPD. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to product development and customer communication. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for food trends and innovation during interviews. Bring examples of how you've kept up with industry changes or contributed to successful product launches in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s 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 Assistant NPD Manager in Broxbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the NPD Assistant Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in product development and any specific projects that showcase your skills in managing timelines and cross-functional communication.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about food innovation and how your background makes you a perfect fit for the team. Don’t forget to mention your interest in food trends!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves customer interaction, emphasise your communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. Share examples of how you've successfully liaised with customers or presented ideas in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Oval Partnership
✨Know Your NPD Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of product development processes, especially in food manufacturing. Be ready to discuss your experience managing timelines and how you've collaborated with different teams. This will show that you're not just familiar with the role but also passionate about it.
✨Show Off Your Presentation Skills
Since this role involves customer-facing presentations, practice your presentation skills ahead of time. Prepare a mock presentation about a product you've worked on, highlighting your role in its development. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and engage with customers.
✨Stay Ahead of Food Trends
Research current food trends and consumer insights relevant to the company’s market. Bring examples of how these trends could influence product development during your interview. This shows that you’re proactive and have a genuine interest in the industry.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the company's approach to innovation or how they handle cross-functional collaboration. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
