NPD Projects Manager

Status:  Closed.  Another successful assignment for Oakleigh Resourcing

Job Title:  NPD Projects Manager

Client:  Carrs Foods International

Location:  South Manchester (easy access M6, M60, M56)

Remuneration: to £60,000 plus very attractive benefits package & flexible working (start 8am-10am)

Overall Purpose & Key Responsibiliities:

  • To lead the project management of the NPD plan to successfully launch new products and manage existing products within agreed timescales.
  • Project landscape - have overall visibility and control of all ongoing global NPD projects, report on progress at the various project stages and milestones.
  • Guide our bakery partners in developing market leading bakery products for our various brands and private label customers.
  • Build strong working relationships with both new and existing supply partners.
  • Identify and develop business with new supply partners.
  • Ensure factory trials are planned and carried out to a critical path schedule using a standardised approach,
  • Ensure outcomes are effectively captured and communicated to stakeholders.
  • Work with multifunctional cross disciplined teams.
  • Build customer relationships both in the UK and USA.
  • Act as one of our 'relationship ambassadors' across the sector.

Person Specification:

Qualifications: Degree in an appropriate food science discipline.

Essential skills and experience:

  • Food sector experience (essential); an understanding of bakery (advantage)
  • Project Management - a significant track record managing and reporting on projects from concept through to launch.
  • Experience carrying out product evaluation and critique; plus sufficient experience conducting factory trials and involvement in the NPD process.
  • Understanding of the cost drivers of successful NPD and how to maximise them.
  • An experienced key stakeholder relationship developer/manager and exceptional communicator;
  • Exposure to retailers, with an understanding of their requirements;
  • Ability to evaluate data;
  • Good report writing skills;
  • Working knowledge of microbiology/HACCP.
  • Understanding of UK Food Legislation.
  • Demonstrate a passion for the food industry with a creative, flexible and knowledgeable approach.
  • Ability to travel frequently - our factory locations are in the UK, Europe, USA and Canada.

To apply for this exciting new role please email your CV to Elaine Rippon at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call Elaine on 01477 534491 for a further discussion,