NPD Lead I Stoke on Trent I £45,000 per annum
Monday - Friday 8.00am - 4.00pm
We are seeking a passionate and innovative NPD Lead to join a well-established and highly respected food manufacturing business in Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a dynamic NPD function within a fast-paced environment, delivering high-quality food products (chilled and frozen) across wholesale, retail, and B2B markets.
Reporting directly to the Sales Director, you will take ownership of the product development lifecycle-from concept through to successful factory launch-while also driving continuous improvements in manufacturing processes.
- Lead and develop the NPD function in line with the company's growth strategy
-
Manage end-to-end product development projects from concept to launch
-
Translate customer briefs into innovative, commercially viable products
-
Ensure all NPD procedures, specifications, and factory documentation are completed accurately
-
Oversee kitchen trials, factory trials, and product validation processes
-
Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency, consistency, and cost performance
-
Collaborate closely with production, technical, purchasing, and sales teams
-
Source and develop innovative ingredients and supplier solutions
-
Conduct market research, trend analysis, and competitor benchmarking
-
Present product concepts and proposals confidently to customers and stakeholders
-
Support cost optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives
-
Contribute to the wider strategic development of the business
We are looking for an ambitious and forward-thinking individual with a genuine passion for food innovation and product development.
- Proven experience within food manufacturing or FMCG
-
Strong knowledge of NPD processes and product lifecycle management
-
Previous leadership or team management experience
-
Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills
-
Strong project management and organisational ability
-
Commercial awareness with a customer-focused mindset
-
Proactive, hands-on approach with a "can-do" attitude
- Minimum 3 years' experience managing an NPD team or similar department
-
Experience working with chilled and frozen food categories
-
Experience working with both retail and B2B customer accounts
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact within a growing and energetic business that values innovation, quality, and collaboration. You will play a key role in shaping the future product portfolio while driving operational excellence.
Apply Now or contact [email protected] 01782 712230
Please note that due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those shortlisted will be personally contacted.
INDCOM
