NPD Lead

NPD Lead I Stoke on Trent I £45,000 per annumMonday - Friday 8.00am - 4.00pmWe are seeking a passionate and innovative NPD Lead to join a well-established and highly respected food manufacturing business in Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire.This is an exciting opportunity to lead a dynamic NPD function within a fast-paced environment, delivering high-quality food products (chilled and frozen) across wholesale, retail, and B2B markets.Reporting directly to the Sales Director, you will take ownership of the product development lifecycle-from concept through to successful factory launch-while also driving continuous improvements in manufacturing processes. Key Responsibilities Lead and develop the NPD function in line with the company''s growth strategyManage end-to-end product development projects from concept to launchTranslate customer briefs into innovative, commercially viable productsEnsure all NPD procedures, specifications, and factory documentation are completed accuratelyOversee kitchen trials, factory trials, and product validation processesDrive process improvements to enhance efficiency, consistency, and cost performanceCollaborate closely with production, technical, purchasing, and sales teamsSource and develop innovative ingredients and supplier solutionsConduct market research, trend analysis, and competitor benchmarkingPresent product concepts and proposals confidently to customers and stakeholdersSupport cost optimisation and continuous improvement ..... full job details .....