Job summary:
* She / He to Manage the NPD process to ensure products are launched successfully, delivered efficiently and timely for the business in conjunction with Technical, Production, Commercial and Purchasing Teams.
* She / He provides leadership in maintaining professional standards and driving continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities:
* All NPD & EPD is presented and coordinated to the retail and/or food service customer in a professional and efficient manner.
* Product concepts from the Development Chefs are scaled up in the factory for timely accurate delivery to retail and food service customers.
* All factory trials are managed in a professional and organized manner involving all relevant stakeholders.
* All NPD & EPD activities are conducted in accordance with Company Policies and procedures to meet the requirements of namely, the customer, the BRC standard, company objectives and industry best practice.
* All relevant information with regards to specifications, procedures and analysis for products approved to launch is co-owned and co-approved between departments.
* All information is stored and is retrievable in a systematic, orderly and maintained manner.
* Positive relationships with the customer and their key personnel are strongly built and developed alongside the Commercial Account Manager and Technical Account Manager.
She / He has general responsibilities for:
* Facilitating the generation and implementation of new and modified products on site through the critical path, in conjunction with all appropriate stakeholders
* Working closely with the Development Chefs and the Commercial Team to ensure that all information is co-owned, co-approved and appropriate to the brief
* Working with other site disciplines to ensure the food safety, quality and legality of all new and modified products
* Ensuring the appropriate maintenance of records of NPD activities to ensure audit compliance in NPD & EPD activities
* Working proactively within the scope of relevant food trends and innovation, in collaboration with the Development Chefs, Marketing Team and the Customer
* Working proactively with respect to new processes, machinery, capabilities and product improvement. This includes the undertaking of R&D projects, as appropriate
* Maintaining health, safety and hygiene standards in accordance with company rules and regulations.
She / He co-ordinates:
* Their direct reports* within the NPD Team (*if applicable)
* Liaison and communication with suppliers, third parties & external providers of expertise.
* Liaison and communication with all internal stakeholders to develop and deliver food-safe, legally compliant new and modified lines from the site
* Liaison and communication with the Customer to develop strong and positive relationships with key personnel
* Delegation of duties
* The Senior NPD Manager may delegate some duties, whilst still maintaining overall responsibility for the role.