New Product Development Manager

Company: Illuminate Recruitment Ltd
Apply for the New Product Development Manager
Location: Hoddesdon
Job Description:

New Product Development Manager

Hoddesdon, On site, full-time

£55 – £65K

A fast-growing consumer brand in the lifestyle, sporting goods and tech/gaming accessories space is seeking a New Product Development Manager to lead the creation of innovative, market-leading products. This is a pivotal role, overseeing the full product lifecycle — from concept and prototyping through to launch — and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with commercial goals.

The Role

As New Product Development Manager, you will:

  • Introduce and execute a rolling three-year product development pipeline Manage the full NPD process: concept, sampling, prototyping, and sign-off
  • Collaborate with UK design teams and overseas suppliers to deliver technical development Conduct supplier research and sourcing to enhance product offerings
  • Define and manage project timelines, ensuring milestones are met
  • Oversee packaging sign-off and compliance with UK/EU standards (UKCA, CE, WEEE)
  • Partner with marketing, sales and supply chain to deliver best-in-class launches
  • Manage costs, pricing, and multi-currency price books, ensuring commercial alignment
  • Analyse market trends, customer needs and competitor activity to identify opportunities
  • Forecast demand, track product performance post-launch, and optimise the pipeline
  • Present insights and recommendations to support future product planning

What We’re Looking For

  • Proven experience in product management and project management, ideally in consumer goods or sports/lifestyle sectors
  • Strong track record of delivering a three-year product pipeline
  • Hands-on experience across the full product lifecycle, from concept to launch
  • Commercially astute with strong forecasting and pricing knowledge
  • Skilled at managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
  • Confident communicator, able to work effectively with cross-functional teams and overseas suppliers
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable strategies
  • Knowledge of compliance requirements across UK/EU/ROW markets
  • Experience with physical product development is essential

What’s on Offer

  • The chance to drive innovation across a varied and exciting product range
  • A collaborative, cross-functional commercial team environment
  • The opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic, growth-focused business

Posted: April 1st, 2026