Innovation Manager

Shape the long-term future of an iconic UK brand!

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Innovation Manager to join the Marketing team at Pilgrim's Europe, taking long-term ownership of the Innovation agenda for one of the UK's most iconic food brands — Richmond.

Over the past five years, Richmond has undergone a significant transformation, expanding into new categories, evolving its positioning and strengthening brand equity. This journey has delivered +43% growth and recruited more than 500,000 new consumers.

This role is fully office-based at our Head Office in Uxbridge, reflecting Pilgrim's Europe's way of working. We believe being together in person encourages collaboration, team-work and the free flow of ideas — from bouncing thoughts around as concepts are formed to working cross-functionally to bring innovation to life.

The Role

As an Innovation Manager, you will be responsible for developing and delivering the Richmond innovation pipeline end-to-end — from early-stage proposition development through to launch — working in close partnership with cross-functional teams across the business.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the development of compelling innovation and renovation propositions aligned with the Richmond brand strategy
• Translating consumer, shopper and category insights into clear innovation platforms and product opportunities
• Owning, building and prioritising the innovation pipeline to maximise long-term commercial value
• Steering concepts through the Stage Gate process, ensuring strong alignment with brand, operational and financial objectives
• Partnering with Insights, Category, R&D, Supply Chain and Commercial teams to bring innovation to market
• Developing robust commercial business cases to support innovation investment decisions
• Managing agencies and internal stakeholders to ensure launches are executed effectively and on time

About You

You are a strategically minded yet delivery-focused marketer, confident working cross-functionally and comfortable driving innovation in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

You'll bring:

• Proven experience in FMCG marketing, innovation or brand management
• A strong track record of converting consumer insight into successful innovation
• Experience developing and managing innovation pipelines
• Solid understanding of the Stage Gate innovation process
• Strong commercial acumen, including business case development
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
• A proactive, ownership-led mindset with the ability to deliver at pace

Why Join Pilgrim's Europe?

• Take long-term ownership of innovation for one of the UK's most recognisable food brands
• Shape products and platforms enjoyed by millions of consumers
• Work collaboratively with talented teams across insights, category, R&D and commercial functions
• Join a growth-focused business committed to innovation, collaboration and results

If you're passionate about building brands, unlocking consumer insight and delivering innovation that drives sustainable growth, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now and help shape the future of Richmond at Pilgrim's Europe.

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