Are you a hands-on innovation expert with a passion for pets? Ready to shape the future of some of the UK’s most loved pet brands?
This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading pet food and accessories manufacturer with over 135 years of expertise and an ambitious growth agenda.
We’re looking for a commercially minded, creative Innovation Manager to lead New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD) projects from concept through to launch - driving innovation across a diverse and growing portfolio.
About the Role
Reporting to the Innovation Controller, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering the innovation pipeline across multiple brands and categories.
You’ll take ownership of projects end-to-end, bringing ideas to life, working cross-functionally, and ensuring successful launches that meet both consumer needs and commercial goals.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead NPD & EPD projects from concept to launch across product and packaging
- Develop and deliver innovation through a stage & gate process
- Identify new opportunities using consumer, shopper, and market insights
- Create and manage critical paths, ensuring projects land on time
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Brand, R&D, Commercial, Procurement, and Operations
- Develop compelling product propositions with clear target audiences
- Manage supplier relationships and support production trials
- Build and present sell-in decks to internal stakeholders and major retailers
- Monitor market trends and competitor activity to drive continuous innovation
- Contribute to “big bet” innovation projects and launch strategies
What We’re Looking For
You’re a strategic thinker who loves getting stuck in. You’re just as comfortable analysing data as you are presenting big ideas.
Essential experience:
- Degree in Marketing or similar
- 4+ years in innovation / NPD roles within FMCG or a brand-led business
- Proven track record of delivering product launches from concept to market
- Strong experience with stage & gate processes and critical path management
- Commercial acumen, including costings, pricing, and profitability
- Experience working with retailers (especially grocery)
- Strong stakeholder management across internal teams and external partners
You’ll also be:
- Highly organised and able to manage multiple complex projects
- Creative, proactive, and solutions-focused
- Confident presenting to senior stakeholders and retailers
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
- A genuine pet lover