NPD Manager - #1725870

NPD ManagerWest YorkshireFull-time, PermanentReports to: General Manager

Are you a commercially savvy NPD professional with a passion for great-tasting, high-performing products? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments where process, precision, and pragmatism are key? If so, we want to hear from you.

We’re recruiting on behalf of a well-established manufacturer in West Yorkshire for a New Product Development Manager specialising in gravy and savoury sauces, with a strong focus on Private Label.

About the Role

This is a critical position within the business, responsible for leading the EPD (Existing Product Development) function and continuously enhancing a core product portfolio that customers know and love. You’ll drive improvements in quality, efficiency, and cost, while ensuring compliance with evolving legislation.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the EPD pipeline: respond to customer briefs, drive recipe upgrades, and lead cost reduction projects
• Collaborate with leading flavour houses to source and trial ingredients
• Lead recipe reformulation and updates in line with business continuity, technical compliance, and customer requirements
• Manage artwork changes, internal systems, and product set-ups
• Conduct kitchen trials and support factory scale-ups with a hands-on approach
• Act as the key technical liaison across internal departments and with customers
• Work closely with the Commercial and Category teams to ensure product development aligns with strategy

Who We’re Looking For

• A background in NPD within sauces, dry mixes, or savoury categories
• Solid experience in Private Label product development
• Detail-oriented with excellent project and change management skills
• Confident in managing technical documentation and working with flavour houses
• Process-driven and focused on execution, not blue-sky innovation