At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product innovation in food and beverage, turning trends into successful launches.
- Company: Join an iconic brand focused on innovation and customer satisfaction.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, and the chance to shape future products.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for creativity and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on products that customers love and enjoy.
- Qualifications: Experience in product development and a passion for food trends.
The predicted salary is between 65250 - 79750 £ per year.
- Product Research & Development Manager
- Interim role - 10 month FTC
- Salary up to £75k DOE
- Food & Beverage | West London | Hybrid
Ready to shape the next big thing in food and drink?
If you're the person who spots tomorrow's trends before everyone else, gets excited by turning consumer insight into commercially successful products and loves seeing your ideas land in stores across the UK, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.
We're partnering with an iconic, customer-loved brand that's investing heavily in innovation, product development and the future of its food and beverage offer.
They're looking for an experienced R&D Manager to lead category innovation, influence business strategy and bring exciting new products to life.
This isn't just about launching products.
It's about creating ranges customers genuinely love, driving commercial performance and helping shape the future direction of a market-leading brand.
What you'll be doing...
You'll own the development of your category strategy, balancing creativity with commercial thinking to deliver products that excite customers and deliver real business growth.
From identifying emerging trends to working with suppliers on the next big launch, you'll take products from concept through to implementation while ensuring every decision supports the wider brand vision.
You'll be
- Leading the UK product development strategy across food and beverage categories
- Creating annual category plans covering product, pricing, packaging and distribution
- Using customer insight, market trends and competitor analysis to identify growth opportunities
- Driving innovation from idea generation through to successful launch
- Managing product performance, forecasts and category profitability
- Building brilliant relationships with suppliers to develop innovative products and packaging
- Working cross-functionally with marketing, operations, finance, procurement, technical and store teams to deliver flawless execution
- Supporting future equipment and operational development to enhance the customer experience
- Leading, coaching and developing a small but talented R&D team
What we're looking for...
You'll already have experience developing successful food or beverage ranges within a retail, hospitality or FMCG environment.
You'll be equally comfortable analysing commercial performance as you are tasting new products or presenting category strategy to senior stakeholders.
We're looking for someone who has
- Proven experience in category management and product development
- A strong commercial mindset with a track record of delivering category growth
- Experience taking products from concept through to launch
- A genuine passion for food, beverage and consumer trends
- Strong supplier management and influencing skills
- Excellent project management and stakeholder management experience
- The ability to combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery
- Previous people management experience
Why you'll love it...
This is a role where your ideas genuinely matter.
You'll have the opportunity to influence product strategy at a national level, work with passionate teams, collaborate with leading suppliers and help create products that millions of customers will enjoy.
If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same and you love blending creativity with commercial thinking, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today with your CV or get in touch for a confidential conversation.
Product Research & Development Manager employer: Zachary Daniels Recruitment
Join a globally recognised business in Manchester as a Strategic Product Director, where you will be part of a dynamic and innovative work culture that prioritises collaboration and excellence. With competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, the company is committed to employee growth and development, offering unique opportunities to lead high-performing teams and shape impactful product strategies. This role not only promises a rewarding career but also the chance to make a significant difference in a market-leading organisation.
Contact Details:
Zachary Daniels Recruitment Recruitment Team
