NPD Manager (FTC)

The CompanyAn exciting new position has arisen for a talented NPD Manager with this pioneering food manufacturer who produce innovative ranges for major retailers and brands. They lead the way within their key categories and are now looking for an ambitious development professional to join their customer focused team.This is a 12-month contract starting ASAP. The role is site based with travel to customers.The RoleThis is the perfect opportunity for an ambitious Senior NPD Technologist looking for career progression, or an NPD Manager searching for an exciting new category with team and customer management responsibilities. You will work closely with NPD Chefs and have a small team of Concept Technologists directly reporting to you, supporting with products specific to your own dedicated customer accounts.As well as being in line with current and emerging food trends, your products will need to meet customer, consumer and category objectives along with margin aspirations. You will take control managing the NPD critical path for your customers, being their key point of contact and working closely with them to ensure your innovation pipeline will help drive category growth.Attuned to market trends, competitor activity and exciting new raw materials, you will spot opportunities to drive continuous improvement within your category. You will also work closely with the Head of NPD to support the shaping of medium and long term development plans.The PersonWe’re looking for a proactive and enthusiastic Senior NPD Technologist or NPD Manager who is ready to take the next step up in their career and move into a customer focused role with line management responsibility. You will have experience of driving innovation projects, supported by a solid understanding of food science and manufacturing processes.Comfortable working in a customer facing role, you are passionate about food and have a demonstrable knowledge of cuisines and ingredients with a willingness to learn and expand upon your repertoire.You will have previous success in delivering results in either a retail or food manufacturing environment, where you have developed your customer management skills as well as an articulate, engaging presentation style. Finally, you will need to be commercially astute and have superb project management skills with the ability to drive and influence to achieve success.So, if you’d like to join a growing and supportive business then send through your application now, or give us a call on ##### ##### 737 for a confidential chat!Ref: L6747---Due to the large number of applications our opportunities attract, it sometimes takes us time to thoroughly review and consider them all. We endeavour to respond to every application within 5 working days, however if you have not heard from us within this timeframe, we are sorry to say your application for the role has not been successful. To support you in showcasing your best self, we make sure that any necessary accommodations, whether physical or non-physical, are provided to assist you throughout the job application and interview process. Also, please note that we are only able to accept and respond to applications from candidates with eligibility to work in the UK and those who hold valid work visas.At Blue Spark Organisation we believe in authenticity, individuality, and inclusion. We are dedicated to ensuring that all our current and future candidates have equal opportunities and are treated with respect and appreciation, allowing them to bring their genuine selves to the workplace, regardless of background, appearance, sexual orientation, or beliefs.