Product Manager – NPD & Innovation
Want to build products, not just manage them?
If you're someone who thrives on taking an idea from a sketch on a whiteboard through to a successful product launch, this could be exactly what you're looking for.
We're recruiting for a rapidly growing food manufacturer that's investing heavily in innovation. This is a hands-on Product Development Manager role where you'll have genuine influence over product development, work cross-functionally across the business, and help shape the future of an ambitious manufacturing operation.
This isn't the sort of environment where you'll spend your days buried in paperwork. You'll be in the factory, in development kitchens, working with suppliers, customers and internal teams to bring exciting new products to market.
What you'll be doing:
- Leading new product development projects from concept through to commercial launch.
- Developing formulations, creating samples, coordinating factory trials and supporting first production runs.
- Managing multiple NPD projects, ensuring timelines, budgets and key milestones are delivered.
- Working closely with Technical, Operations, Commercial and Procurement to deliver commercially successful products.
- Building strong relationships with ingredient suppliers and customers.
- Keeping up to date with emerging ingredients, market trends and consumer insights to identify future innovation opportunities.
- Supporting the introduction of new ingredients, processes and manufacturing technologies.
- Creating and maintaining technical documentation, specifications and development standards.
- Driving continuous improvement across product development processes, quality and cost.
What we're looking for:
- Previous experience in a Product Manager or Senior NPD role within food & beverage manufacturing.
- A strong understanding of formulation, ingredient functionality and manufacturing processes.
- Excellent project management and organisational skills.
- Experience managing multiple development projects simultaneously.
- Knowledge of food safety, quality systems and regulatory requirements.
- A proactive, hands-on approach with the confidence to work across multiple departments.
- Someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced, growing business where no two days are the same.
What's in it for you?
- The opportunity to play a key role in a business with ambitious growth plans.
- A genuinely hands-on position where you'll influence products from concept to launch.
- A collaborative culture where your ideas are welcomed and your contribution is recognised.
- Career development within a business that's continuing to invest in innovation, people and manufacturing capability.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
If you're looking for a role where you'll have real ownership, genuine variety and the opportunity to shape the future of an ambitious food manufacturer, we'd love to hear from you.
Product Development Manager employer: The Sterling Choice
The Sterling Choice offers a dynamic work environment where innovation meets stability, making it an excellent employer for those seeking a fulfilling career in food manufacturing. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and development, team members benefit from ongoing training and support, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. Located in Andover, the company provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a vital industry while enjoying the perks of a permanent night shift schedule that promotes work-life balance.
