Role overview
NPD Manager
Based at our contemporary head office and distribution centre on the outskirts of Preston, James Hall & Co. Ltd. have been
established for over 150 years proudly serving communities across the north of England as supplier and distributor to over 400
SPAR stores.
We are proud to be one of the biggest employers in Lancashire with over 4000 colleagues who represent our core values of passion,
enterprise and family every single day.
About the Role
As the Product Development Manager, you will be responsible for driving the profitability of existing products and leading the
development of innovative new products across the company’s production departments. You will coordinate with key stakeholders to
ensure the seamless operation of the NPD function while maintaining high standards of quality, compliance, and efficiency.
Here’s What You Can Expect to be Doing
* Lead and manage an NPD team of 5-6 individuals, fostering innovation and collaboration.
* Oversee and maintain NPD systems, including controlled documents and procedures.
* Ensure all product artwork meets legal and regulatory standards, with final approval responsibility.
* Manage and enhance the performance of the NPD team, promoting professional growth and excellence.
* Ensure full understanding and compliance with product and customer specifications, as well as quality requirements.
* Oversee product testing, evaluation, and modification to meet market and business needs.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams and manage all stages of the product development process.
* Apply expertise across multiple product categories, including raw and cooked meats, sandwiches, ready meals, bakery products,
dairy, and halal markets.
* Analyse and manage product costing to ensure profitability.
* Ensure standardisation of products and packaging to meet both business and national standards.
* Work closely with Trading, Sales, and Marketing teams to successfully launch new products.
A Few Things About You
Essential:
* Diploma (minimum) in a food-related discipline.
* At least 5 years of experience in a similar role within the FMCG sector.
* Strong understanding of the retail landscape and product development processes.
Desirable:
* Experience working with a variety of manufacturing processes and equipment.
* Skills and Competencies
* Passion and enthusiasm for the food industry, with a commitment to innovation.
* Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects within tight deadlines.
* Commercial awareness and strong analytical skills, with an understanding of product costing and profitability.
* Knowledge of manufacturing processes, including machine capabilities and costs of new equipment or tooling.
Attributes:
* A unique blend of business acumen and technical expertise.
* Visionary thinking with the ability to translate ideas into actionable results.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively across all levels of the organisation and with external
stakeholders.
* A collaborative mindset combined with a proactive, “can-do” attitude.
Why us?
James Hall & Co. Ltd. have one simple vison: to still be in business in another 50 years!
To make this vision possible we need the best talent to join us on our journey. We are a family company and believe that if we
look after our people, they will look after us.
Here are some of the benefits that you can take advantage of as an employee of James Hall & Co. Ltd.
Loyalty award – From day one you will receive £0.25p per hour for every hour you work. You will then receive this as a lump sum on
the pay period after your 12 month anniversary.
Company Doctor – We care about the health and wellbeing of our people. That is why you will have access to our company doctor with
the ability to book appointments directly.
Free On-site Parking - You don’t have to worry about paying for parking or getting from your car to the office as our site boasts
a secure car park with over 1000 spaces.
Holidays – Everyone needs a break so as an employee of James Hall & Co. Ltd. you will receive our enhanced holiday package of 22
days holidays per year plus bank holidays (unless otherwise stated). Holiday entitlement increases with continuous service every
two years
Learning & Development – We want all of our colleagues to reach their full potential. That is why you will benefit from our
in-house learning and development team who will provide you access to fully funded accredited training and industry recognised
qualifications.
Grocery Aid – We understand the importance of mental health. We work with the national charity Grocery Aid to provide all
colleagues a 24/7 helpline service that is free, independent and confidential. Grocery Aid also offer a wide range of other
fantastic services to support you when you need it.
We also offer staff discount, cycle to work scheme and our famous Christmas Hamper!