New Product Development Specialist

About the Opportunity

NOTE: ONLY APPLICANTS THAT DO NOT NEED SPONSORSHIP AND ONLY APPLY IF YOU HAVE EXPERIENCE IN FOOD MANUFACTURING.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Development Technologist to join a leading food manufacturer supplying premium products across the retail, foodservice, and wholesale sectors.

This business is recognised for developing innovative, high-quality food products and works closely with major customers to deliver bespoke solutions while maintaining the highest standards of quality, food safety, and traceability.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Commercial Director, you will lead the New Product Development (NPD) team, driving innovation and managing the complete product development lifecycle from concept through to successful commercial launch.

Key Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of the NPD process, ensuring development projects are delivered efficiently, on time, and to the highest standards.
• Manage customer briefs from concept through to commercial launch, ensuring objectives and project timelines are achieved.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships, supporting successful product development while identifying opportunities for future business growth.
• Collaborate closely with Production, Technical, Procurement, Commercial, and Operations teams to ensure seamless product launches.
• Monitor market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activity to identify new product opportunities and drive innovation.
• Prepare and deliver engaging customer presentations tailored to individual requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the NPD team, promoting a culture of collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement.

About You

We're looking for a commercially minded food professional with a passion for innovation who enjoys working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Degree in Food Science or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• Proven experience within food manufacturing, ideally within the meat sector.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple development projects simultaneously.
• Previous experience leading, coaching, and developing a team.
• A creative mindset with a strategic approach to product development.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Full UK driving licence.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in shaping an exciting product portfolio while working with major retail, B2B, and foodservice customers. You'll have the opportunity to lead innovation, influence commercial success, and make a genuine impact within a growing and forward-thinking food manufacturing business.