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Job Title


NPD Manager


Company : Advocate Group


Location : Manchester, England


Created : 2025-07-20


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

New Product Development ManagerLocation: Swinton, ManchesterSalary: £50,000 – £55,000 + BonusType: Permanent Are you a commercially minded food innovation specialist with a passion for turning ideas into shelf-ready successes? Our client, a fast-growing and trend-led product design business, is seeking a New Product Development Manager to lead the charge in bringing high impact products to market.The CompanyThis entrepreneurial, licensing led business partners with some of the biggest names in retail and FMCG to deliver branded, private label, and own-label food products. With a strong track record of category defining launches and a client list spanning many major UK retailers, they offer a versitile and high responsibility environment for innovation led thinkers.Recent wins include licensed partnerships in global food and character brands, and the business is constantly seeking the next big idea across snacking and ambient categories.The RoleAs the New Product Development Manager, you’ll lead the development of 25 - 30 projects, from concept through to launch. This is a highly autonomous role that sits at the heart of the business, you'll work closely with commercial, sales, logistics, and external manufacturing partners to bring ideas to life.This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast moving, creative environment where no two days are the same, and where product fit, commercial viability, and brand storytelling matter just as much as innovation.Key ResponsibilitiesLead cross functional projects across licensed, private label, and own label food productsTranslate category trends into commercially viable product launchesManage external supplier, manufacturer, and 3PL relationshipsDeliver full EPD & NPD pipelines with speed and creativityWork closely with sales and marketing to support go-to-market strategiesEnsure compliance with food safety and labelling regulationsChampion a solution-focused mindset with ownership from brief to shelfWhat We’re Looking ForPrevious experience in NPD, ideally within snacking or related food categoriesStrong commercial acumen, not just a product thinker, but a market thinkerHighly organised project manager with creative energyHands-on experience managing external manufacturing and supply partnersKnowledge of UK food regulations and quality standardsConfident communicator, collaborator, and problem solverPassionate about trend spotting and gap analysisAbility to work in the office 4–5 days per week in a fast-paced SME environmentInterested?