We are a passionate, entrepreneurial team that moves quickly, cares deeply about product quality, and is committed to clean-label and vegan innovation. This is a pivotal moment in our growth and we are looking for an exceptional NPD leader to help shape what comes next.
THE ROLE
As Senior NPD Manager, you will own the end-to-end new product development process across our full portfolio — from initial concept through to commercial launch. You will work closely with our Operations, Technical, and Commercial teams, and be the primary NPD point of contact for our key retail and food service partners.
This is a hands‑on role in a fast‑paced environment. You will be expected to lead multiple concurrent projects, bring creative and technically sound ideas to the table, and ensure every product we launch meets our high standards for taste, quality, and regulatory compliance in both the UK and US markets.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Manage and track the full NPD pipeline, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within cost targets, and to brief
- Develop and present compelling product concepts and range proposals to key retail buyers in the UK and rest of the world
- Liase with the Commercial team to support new business development and showcasing of Doughlicious capabilities
- Drive innovation in vegan, clean‑label, and free‑from product development in line with market trends
- Oversee sensory evaluation, factory trials, and shelf‑life testing programmes
- Collaborate with Technical and Regulatory teams to ensure full UK, EU, and US FDA compliance across all new products
- Build and manage relationships with ingredient and packaging suppliers to support NPD requirements
- Conduct costing and margin analysis for new products in partnership with Operations and Finance
- Mentor and support junior NPD team members, fostering a culture of creativity and rigour
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
- 6+ years of NPD experience within a food manufacturing environment
- Strong background in confectionery and bakery
- Proven experience presenting NPD to major UK retailers (M&S, Waitrose, Tesco, or equivalent)
- Solid understanding of food technology, ingredient functionality, and shelf‑life principles
- Experience working to UK FIR 2014 / EU 1169/2011 labelling and allergen requirements
- Commercially astute with the ability to develop products within defined cost parameters
- Excellent project management skills — able to juggle multiple briefs without dropping quality
- A genuine passion for food, flavour, and innovation
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