NPD Process Manager

Due to growth within the NPD team, we are now recruiting for a NPD Process Manager  Role: The NPD Process manager will be responsible for the planning, preparation  and successful execution of process development and line trials to deliver customer requirements, process improvements, technical validations while achieving critical deadlines. A large part of the role will be to lead trials to support the innovation process and deliver blue sky work to push the boundaries. There will be significant collaboration with key stake holders/heads of departments to ensure products are commercially viable, technically safe & able to be processed to meet customer needs. This role will report into head of innovation. Key responsibilities: •       Lead transition of approved products through factory trials to launch•       Lead upgrades to manufacturing practices and ingredients and formulate ways to improve margins and quality•       Lead pretrial meetings, factory trials to ensure comprehensive data and reports recorded for accurate cost capture •       Communicate regularly with customers and deal with queries in a timely manner. •       Lead in customer presentations regarding factory sign offs and preproduction•       Lead in the provision of accurate technical information supporting customer samples at all stages •       Control validation costs; delivering monthly reports to track costs•       Assist in the review of products after launch and before being moved to live to reduce wastage, address bottlenecks and define process. •       Lead blue-sky factory and kitchen trials ensuring comprehensive data and reports are recorded•       Responsible for collating and presenting research findings so wider team can make informed decisions•       Constantly review customer feedback reports, complaints and taste panel results, sales volumes to determine key areas to focus on to improve product quality•       Challenge status quo of all systems, processes, product formulations to deliver customer satisfaction and improve market share, always treating information analytically.    ESSENTIAL QUALITIES:Ensure a planned, proactive approach to work demonstrating exceptional organisational skills, effective communication, attention to detail and teambuilding.•       Good, knowledge of the meat & added value industry across multiple retailers•       A self-motivated individual that is naturally inquisitive with a constant drive to ‘seek out’ continuous improvement. •       Ability to engage and communicate clearly with confidence at various levels within the organization.•       Good customer management skills•       Ability to work effectively and in a highly productive manner as an individual or as part of a team.•       A degree in relevant science, specialist qualifications and equivalent work-based experience, with proven track record in a similar role.