NPD Lead – Chocolate & Confectionery Innovation

About the role

We are seeking an experienced New Product Development (NPD) Lead to drive innovation for two iconic confectionery brands – Montezuma’s premium chocolate and Bristows of Devon traditional sweets. Based in Chichester, you will own the end‑to‑end innovation pipeline, turning consumer insights into market‑ready products.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute the NPD and innovation strategy for both brands.
• Manage the full Stage‑Gate process from concept generation through commercial launch.
• Develop new chocolate and confectionery products, overseeing trials, scale‑up and manufacturing.
• Translate consumer trends into commercially viable product concepts.
• Lead and mentor a small Product Development team.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Operations, Procurement, Technical and Finance to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Drive continuous improvement of the NPD process.

Required profile

• Significant experience in chocolate or confectionery product development within a food manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record of taking products from concept to commercial launch.
• Experience managing multiple NPD projects simultaneously.
• Strong commercial understanding, including product costing and margin management.
• Excellent stakeholder management and leadership abilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape the future of two beloved brands with autonomy over innovation strategy.
• Senior‑level responsibility and visibility across the business.