Salary: £55-65k
Location: Norwich
Overview
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
Salary description
£55000.00 - £65000.00 per year