At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting food product development projects from concept to market launch.
- Company: Join a dynamic food manufacturing company in Norwich with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and learning.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of food innovation and shape consumer experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in food product development and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
A commercially focused Product Development Manager responsible for leading end-to-end NPD and EPD projects within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. The role involves managing product launches from concept to market, driving innovation, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring products meet customer, commercial, and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead NPD and EPD projects from concept through to launch.
- Develop commercially viable, consumer-led products in collaboration with customer, culinary, and commercial teams.
- Manage project timelines, critical paths, and stage-gate processes to ensure successful launches.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams including operations, procurement, packaging, finance, supply chain, and technical functions.
- Ensure all products meet customer specifications, legal requirements, allergen standards, sustainability expectations, and quality standards.
- Maintain accurate product data, recipes, and costing information within internal systems.
- Identify opportunities for product improvement, cost optimisation, and operational efficiency.
- Oversee product handovers into manufacturing and ensure launch readiness.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives across product development processes.
- Assist with packaging artwork approvals and compliance documentation.
- Manage budgets and contribute to value chain improvement projects.
- Lead, coach, and support the development team to maximise performance and engagement.
- Monitor market, consumer, and competitor trends to identify innovation opportunities.
- Support strategic product planning and customer-focused product roadmaps.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external customers through effective communication and collaboration.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Experience in product development within the food manufacturing industry.
- Proven track record of launching food products from concept to market.
- Strong project management and organisational skills.
- Experience with product costing, budgeting, and supply chain processes.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and analytical skills.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Desirable
- Experience within relevant food categories.
- Experience working with geographically dispersed teams.
- Degree or equivalent qualification in Food Science, Business, Marketing, or a related discipline.
Personal Attributes
- Passionate about food innovation and consumer trends.
- Commercially aware, proactive, and solutions-focused.
- Collaborative, adaptable, and results-driven.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
Product Development Manager - Food Manufacturing. Job in Norwich LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
As a Product Development Manager at our Norwich location, you will thrive in a dynamic and innovative food manufacturing environment that prioritises creativity and collaboration. We offer competitive salaries, a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth, and the opportunity to lead exciting product launches that meet consumer needs. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters continuous improvement in a fast-paced industry.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Development Manager - Food Manufacturing. Job in Norwich LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local food manufacturing events. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Show your passion for food innovation and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about your experience in product development and how it aligns with the role. We love candidates who can articulate their value and fit for the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are ready to make an impact in food manufacturing.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Development Manager - Food Manufacturing. Job in Norwich LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in food manufacturing and any successful product launches you've led. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about food innovation and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Project Management Skills:Since this role involves managing multiple projects, be sure to highlight your project management experience. Share specific examples of how you've successfully coordinated teams and met deadlines in previous roles.
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 end-to-end process of New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD). Be ready to discuss specific projects you've led, focusing on how you managed timelines and cross-functional teams. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to develop commercially viable products. Discuss how you’ve collaborated with culinary and commercial teams to meet customer needs while ensuring compliance with regulations. This will demonstrate your understanding of the market and consumer trends.
✨Master the Art of Communication
Since this role involves coordinating with various teams, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you’ve built relationships with stakeholders in the past and be ready to share those experiences. Good communication can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially regarding product improvements and operational efficiency. Prepare to discuss specific challenges you faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. This will showcase your proactive and solutions-focused mindset.
