New Product Development Manager

Position: New Product Development Manager
Location: Caerphilly
Salary: 45,000 - 55,000

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a New Product Development (NPD) Manager to join a fast-growing and award-winning food manufacturer based in South Wales.

This role is ideal for a passionate foodie who enjoys working with ingredients and wants to be hands-on in developing both branded and own-label products from concept to launch.

Job Overview

Reporting directly to the Head of Commercial, you'll lead the end-to-end NPD process and manage a small, skilled team including a Packaging Technologist and an NPD Process Technician. Working cross-functionally with Commercial, Technical, Operations, and Marketing teams, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering innovation that meets both customer and commercial needs.

Lead and manage the full NPD lifecycle, from initial concept through to market launch.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and successful project delivery.
• Oversee and support the development of direct reports in packaging and process development roles.
• Partner with National Account Managers and Brand teams to translate market insights into winning products.
• Conduct market trend and competitor analysis to drive innovation and identify opportunities.
• Manage critical paths, resources, and budgets to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery.
• Maximise use of the new test kitchen facility for creative development, trials, and presentations.
• Support product trials, shelf-life testing, and internal/external product showcases.

Job Requirements

• Strong background in food NPD - Essential
• Minimum 3 years experience in NPD Management
• Experience managing the concept-to-launch process.
• Skilled in leading and developing teams.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multiple functions and levels.
• Passion for food, ingredients, and innovation.

Salary & Benefits

• 45,000 - 55,000 DOE
• Full-time, permanent (Monday to Friday, 8-4/9-5)
• Onsite position with flexibility of work from home 1 day a week
• 33 days holiday
• Full benefits to be discussed

Bennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.

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