NPD Lead I Stoke on Trent I Up to £45,000 per annum

Monday - Friday 8.00am - 4.00pm

We are seeking a passionate and innovative NPD Lead to join a well-established and highly respected food manufacturing business in Staffordshire.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a dynamic NPD function within a fast-paced environment, delivering high-quality raw and cooked meat 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 strategy
• Manage end-to-end product development projects from concept to launch
• Translate customer briefs into innovative, commercially viable products
• Ensure all NPD procedures, specifications, and factory documentation are completed accurately
• Oversee kitchen trials, factory trials, and product validation processes
• Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency, consistency, and cost performance
• Collaborate closely with production, technical, purchasing, and sales teams
• Source and develop innovative ingredients and supplier solutions
• Conduct market research, trend analysis, and competitor benchmarking
• Present product concepts and proposals confidently to customers and stakeholders
• Support cost optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives
• Contribute to the wider strategic development of the business

About You

We are looking for an ambitious and forward-thinking individual with a genuine passion for food innovation and product development.

Essential Criteria

• Proven experience within food manufacturing or FMCG
• Strong knowledge of NPD processes and product lifecycle management
• Previous leadership or team management experience
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strong project management and organisational ability
• Commercial awareness with a customer-focused mindset
• Proactive, hands-on approach with a "can-do" attitude

Ideally you will have

• Minimum 3 years' experience managing an NPD team or similar department
• Experience working with chilled and frozen food categories
• Experience working with both retail and B2B customer accounts

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact within a growing and energetic business that values innovation, quality, and collaboration. You will play a key role in shaping the future product portfolio while driving operational excellence.

Apply Now or contact keeley@kpir.co.uk

Please note that due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those shortlisted will be personally contacted.

INDCOM