At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead new product development and packaging projects from concept to production.
- Company: Join a leading drinks manufacturer focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, great benefits, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration across departments.
- Why this job: Shape the future of iconic brands and make a real impact in the industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in NPD/NPI within FMCG or drinks sector, strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
West Lothian Competitive Salary & Benefits Nine Twenty Engineering & Manufacturing are delighted to be supporting a leading player in the drinks manufacturing sector in their search for an NPD Leader. This is a fantastic opportunity for a driven professional to take ownership of new product introduction, packaging development, and master data management for a highly respected and forward-thinking organisation in the industry.
The Role
This is a cross-functional and high-impact role responsible for the end-to-end delivery of new products, from concept through to production, ensuring seamless manufacturing integration, regulatory compliance, and data integrity. You'll collaborate across departments including marketing, procurement, production, and supply chain to ensure new product launches are delivered successfully, old products are phased out effectively, and packaging solutions meet evolving sustainability and productivity demands.
Key Responsibilities
- New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Lead cross-functional teams to deliver NPI & change projects on time and within scope.
- Champion process discipline and educate marketing/design teams on technical constraints and opportunities.
- Oversee procurement coordination, dry goods sourcing, and timeline management.
- Track and report NPI progress, highlighting risks, roadblocks, and opportunities.
- Collaborate with supply and demand to manage product lifecycle transitions.
- New Product Development & Packaging
- Design and implement packaging that aligns with cost, sustainability, and technical requirements.
- Liaise with suppliers, designers, and production teams to ensure packaging is fit-for-purpose.
- Oversee testing, regulatory compliance, and packaging innovation initiatives.
- Master Data Management
- Maintain accuracy across all product-related master data (BOMs, specs, pricing, etc.).
- Implement best practices in data governance and system optimisation.
Essential Experience
- NPI/NPD project experience within the drinks or FMCG manufacturing industry (spirits highly desirable but would consider candidates from outwith).
- Strong background in packaging technologies, materials, and bottling operations.
- Proven experience managing cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders.
- Proficient with ERP systems (AS400 or similar), Excel, and MS Office Suite.
- Strong organisational, communication, and reporting skills.
Desirable
- 5+ years in change/project management within the spirits industry.
- Knowledge of French (verbal/written).
- Packaging technology/design qualifications.
What We’re Looking For
- A proactive, pragmatic problem-solver with the confidence to lead and influence.
- Someone resilient, detail-oriented, and able to manage conflicting priorities.
- A natural collaborator who can bring structure, clarity, and momentum to complex projects.
Why Apply?
- Join a business that values innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
- Be a key player in shaping the future of iconic brands and new product lines.
- Work with a high-performing, supportive, and passionate team in a dynamic environment.
NPD Leader. Job in Blackburn LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
At Nine Twenty Engineering & Manufacturing, we pride ourselves on being a forward-thinking employer that champions innovation and sustainability in the drinks manufacturing sector. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth and empowers employees to take ownership of impactful projects, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of our iconic brands. With competitive salaries and a supportive environment in Blackburn, we offer a unique opportunity for driven professionals to thrive and make a meaningful difference.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NPD Leader. Job in Blackburn LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their values and recent developments in the drinks sector. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the NPD Leader role. Highlight your project management skills and any relevant packaging technologies you've worked with. Confidence is key!
✨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 NPD Leader. Job in Blackburn LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the NPD Leader role. Highlight your experience in new product introduction and packaging development, as these are key aspects of the job. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role. Share specific examples of your past successes in managing cross-functional projects and how you can bring that expertise to our team.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working across various departments, make sure to highlight your collaboration skills. We love seeing candidates who can effectively communicate and work with different teams to achieve common goals.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your NPD Inside Out
Make sure you understand the entire new product development process, especially in the drinks or FMCG sector. Brush up on your knowledge of packaging technologies and how they align with sustainability goals, as this will show your passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Cross-Functional Experience
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams in previous roles. Highlight specific projects where you collaborated with marketing, procurement, and production to deliver results, as this is crucial for the NPD Leader position.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Data Management
Since master data management is a key responsibility, be prepared to talk about your experience with ERP systems and data governance. Bring examples of how you've maintained data accuracy and implemented best practices in your past roles.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Think of scenarios where you've faced challenges in project management and how you overcame them. The company is looking for a proactive problem-solver, so showcasing your resilience and ability to manage conflicting priorities will set you apart.
