NPD Project Manager

About the role

The company, a growing food manufacturing business, is seeking an NPD Project Manager to join the Operations team. Reporting to the COO, you will bring structure, visibility and governance to new product development and customer launch projects.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate delivery of NPD, customer launch and innovation projects from concept to commercial launch.
• Own and develop the product development project governance framework and stage‑gate process.
• Manage multiple cross‑functional projects simultaneously, ensuring milestones, actions and deliverables are met.
• Chair project review meetings and report on progress, risks and decisions.
• Build strong relationships with NPD, Commercial, Operations, Technical, Procurement and outsourced manufacturing partners.
• Drive accountability across project teams, resolving issues promptly.
• Support the COO with wider business improvement projects requiring structured project management.
• Maintain clear communication with all stakeholders throughout the development process.
• Champion continuous improvement by reviewing completed projects and identifying enhancements to delivery and governance.

Required profile

• Proven experience in managing new product development or innovation projects, preferably in food manufacturing.
• Strong stakeholder management and ability to influence cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent organisational skills with a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Ability to balance robust governance with commercial flexibility.
• Experience chairing project review meetings and producing clear reporting.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary £50,000‑£53,000 per year plus a 15% discretionary bonus.
• Influential newly created role with real impact on project delivery.
• Hybrid working pattern – Monday to Friday with one day remote.
• Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and diverse functional teams.