Culinary NPD Team Lead

About the role

We are seeking a passionate Culinary NPD Team Lead to drive our UK innovation agenda. You will head the Product Development team, overseeing the full lifecycle from concept to commercial launch while shaping the future of our development function.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop a small, high‑performing NPD team.
• Create a culture of innovation, set objectives and manage performance.
• Own end‑to‑end NPD projects, from kitchen creation to market launch.
• Collaborate with Commercial, Operations, Finance, Procurement and Supply Chain.
• Partner with the UK General Manager on strategic growth initiatives.
• Manage multiple projects, stage‑gate processes and launch timelines.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, HACCP, allergen and quality standards.

Required profile

• Proven experience in culinary NPD, development chef or product development within food manufacturing.
• Previous leadership experience with a track record of coaching teams.
• Successful delivery of products from concept through launch.
• Strong commercial awareness and knowledge of food manufacturing.

Required skills

• HACCP implementation
• Allergen management
• Quality systems and food safety compliance

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a national innovation function.
• Exposure to senior stakeholders across the business.
• Travel across the UK and EU as required.