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Main Purpose of the Role:
Lead and manage the NPD and Technical Services team, overseeing the development process from concept to launch. Ensure that new products are innovative, high quality, and market-leading while optimising development processes and improving customer service. Ensure projects meet high standards within agreed timelines and commercial parameters set by internal and external stakeholders.
Main Responsibilities:
- Develop and mentor the NPD and Technical Services teams, focusing on training and succession planning.
- Optimize the development process and improve departmental performance to drive business growth.
- Foster an innovative and creative culture within the NPD function.
- Provide strong leadership and facilitate effective networks and cooperation with stakeholders.
- Maintain customer and company quality standards, ensuring compliance with regulations and policies.
- Manage NPD projects, ensuring they remain on track and meet quality, cost, and delivery targets.
- Stay updated with relevant legislation, food innovation, and technological trends.
- Report departmental performance through KPIs and seek continuous improvement.
- Oversee customer technical interactions, specifications, artwork generation, and address customer inquiries and complaints.
- Coordinate with retailers on technical account management, including product development, food safety, and packaging changes.
- Manage customer site visits and drive improvement actions based on audit scores and product complaints.
- Collaborate with site and central technical staff on technical initiatives.
Health and Safety, Environment, and Housekeeping:
- Adhere to safety procedures and promote a safety-conscious work environment.
- Lead the team in maintaining cleanliness and tidiness in the working area.
- Contribute to health and safety initiatives and ensure environmentally friendly practices.
Communication:
- Conduct all communication in a professional, clear, and positive manner.
- Provide staff briefings and training as required.
- Ensure precise communication of instructions and effective listening skills.
Team Orientation:
- Support operational and human resource objectives, mindful of actions affecting costs.
- Guide team members to achieve personal growth and respect individuality.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Take responsibility for personal performance and skill development.
- Focus on customer satisfaction and brand protection.
- Promote company values and comply with conduct standards.
- Implement practices that support the Environmental Policy.
Person Specification
Qualifications:
- Essential: 5 GCSEs at grade A – D (or equivalent). Industry-recognized food technical qualification – HND/Degree or equivalent.
- Desirable: Additional qualifications in food technology or related fields.
Experience:
- Essential: 5 years of experience in people management. Previous NPD manager or senior technologist experience, including launching products into various market sectors.
- Desirable: 10 years of experience in people management. Extensive experience with global market sectors and managing NPD from concept to launch.
