We have a new opening for an Innovation NPD Manager to join a well-established company based in the Midlands. Fantastic opportunity for someone with a demonstrated track record within the Food/Nutrition industry showing progress to move into a position at managerial level.
Reporting directly to the Direct or Operations you’ll be involved in all aspects of bringing a new product to market - from the initial concept right through to product launch. You will be the key business contact for all issues concerning the products we’re developing, keeping various departments informed of any outcomes and making sure that all agreed parameters are met. As well as new products, you’ll also have responsibility for improving our existing product portfolio and will lead a growing Innovation team who will help you get the job done.
Role and Responsibilities:
Manage NPD, Value Reengineering & EPD projects throughout the NPD process, from concept to Launch, working cross functionally with all business teams.
Monitor and evaluate industry trends & customer drivers and meet regularly with key interdepartmental teams to discuss current, and future innovation, in line with company strategy.
Present NPD & EPD concepts with supporting data to lead decision-makers within the business.
Keeping up to date with changes to legislation and new research.
Sourcing and evaluating new materials and ingredients.
Interpreting new legislation and ensuring that all relevant staff are up to speed with any regulatory changes.
Working with internal compliance department to ensure all products in development are fully compliant and legal for the markets where they are sold.
Ensuring all new products meet technical, costing and production parameters.
Conducting nutritional research as and when required.
Drafting and updating company New Product Development procedures and practices.
Drafting, circulation, review and approval of complete Technical Packs, Product Specifications and associated documentation for all new products.
Responsible for ensuring all NPD project files and paperwork are up to date and completed within the specific deadlines
Support technologists with both in-house, and external, organoleptic testing of trialled products.
Taking responsibility for successful handover of product to process development staff.
Researching new ways to produce and improve the quality, processing, packaging, storage and safety of food in accordance with government and industry standards.
Complete market research of potential new area, identifying new or existing categories that our brands may suit.
Requirements:
Degree in Food Technology, Nutrition or Food Science (or similar relevant discipline, e.g. Pharma, healthcare, etc).
3-5 years’ experience in Product Development/Research & Development or in a transferable role.
Alternatively, this role may suit someone with a demonstrated track record within the food/nutrition industry showing progress from entry to managerial level.
Highly motivated with an ability to build and maintain successful relationships (team working and team building skills) and have the ability to lead, motivate and develop others working for, and with, you.
Innovative and creative with strong technical understanding and excellent leadership skills.
Sound decision making and problem-solving skills while also having the ability to think creatively.
Have the ability to lead, motivate and develop others working for, and with, you.
Possess a level of commercial awareness in terms of ingredients, quantities, packaging, etc.
Well-developed communication, numeric and interpersonal skills.
Project management and planning, ability to handle a varied and busy workload.
Efficient time preparation and organisation.
For a confidential discussion on this role please contact: Gillian Nicholson
gillian.nicholson@collinsmcnicholas.ie
090 6450665