Product Manager / Senior NPD Technologist

An exciting opportunity to join one of the UK’s fastest growing chilled food businesses as Product Manager / Senior NPD Technologist is now available. Part of a wider European food group comprising of seven companies, The UK business produces high quality private label value added, vegetarian, free-from, plant-based and NPD driven dairy products. The business has a glowing reputation across the industry, and this has been recognised through several awards. The business has a significant presence across the grocery multiple retailers, and they have some fantastic NPD in the pipeline. Following significant business growth and future business plans they are seeking a Product Manager / Senior NPD Technologist to join the team.

Responsibilities

Working closely with the commercial team on all projects; Supporting in identifying new development opportunities in your customers portfolio with the commercial team; Close communication with the customer leading all project calls and visits; Represent the development team at both internal and external meetings; Be a key contact with the customer development and technical representatives ensuring all communication is completed to the highest standard, answer queries and questions in a timely manor; Ensure that all process development issues are considered into all new product development projects from concept to launch ensuring that products can be successfully manufactured consistently after launch; Managing the critical path from ideation stage through to concept approval and to launch; Ensure all product development meet internal business plans and approval at each gate is sought. Documentation of the gate approval process; Ensure all external customers brand standards, competencies and expectations; Liaising with the production, planning and process team to ensure trials are successful, completed in the time required of the critical path and are fully documented; Managing and coordinating sample submissions, nutritional and micro testing; Writing and reviewing QAS and factory line standards; Supporting with sourcing new ingredients; Producing high quality customer samples; Supporting with product specification writing; Completing and documentation of over life standards; Completion of factory worksheets and system updates; Benchmarking the market; Supporting the costing process and alerting the business to any risks in the ingredient of choice; Comply with the sites HACCP procedures and develop products which fit into the allergen management plan; Completing the post launch reviews; Ensuring that all products are completely documented through the gate process and all required sign offs are received prior to the project continuing through the development process; Advise the Head of NPD of any training needs of you or your colleagues; Keep abreast of technical and legal updates; Understand the market and consider any trends which could be incorporated into the development process; Work closely with the Commercial team to pro-actively generate new business

Requirements

BSc in Food Science or equivalent related discipline; Minimum of 3 years’ experience within the Food Manufacturing Industry; Knowledge of a range of Retailers and their Codes of Practice; Computer literate with working knowledge of computer applications / Microsoft Office; Customer management experience; Well-motivated, flexible and able to work on their own initiative and as a part of a team; Excellent organisational skills; Able to prioritise effectively to produce positive results; Strong oral and written communication skills; Ability to work openly and collaboratively at all levels; Able to motivate and organise effectively; Flexible approach; Systems Driven; Knowledge and desire to be present in the factory – this is not a “desk only job”

Nice to have

Management of people; Audit Experience