Job title: NPD ManagerLocation: Cheshire - 5 days a week on-siteSalary: £60,000 – £65,000 + BenefitsWe’re partnering with a well-established ambient food manufacturer to recruit an NPD Manager.This is a senior, high-impact role responsible for leading end-to-end product development across own label and branded ranges - from concept through to launch and lifecycle optimisation. You’ll play a key part in shaping innovation strategy while ensuring products are technically robust, commercially viable and delivered at pace.The RoleReporting into the Sales Director and working cross-functionally across Commercial, Technical, Operations and Procurement, you will:Define and deliver the product development and innovation strategy aligned to business growth objectivesLead a balanced innovation pipeline including renovation, line extensions and breakthrough conceptsManage stage-gate processes, feasibility and risk assessmentLead complex development projects through factory scale-up and launchAct as the senior technical authority on formulation and processingEnsure full compliance with food safety, quality and regulatory standardsOwn product costings, margin targets and value engineering initiativesPartner with Commercial teams on positioning, claims and launch readinessInfluence senior stakeholders and external partnersDevelop and mentor a high-performing NPD teamAbout YouWe’re looking for someone with:Extensive experience in food product development and commercialisationStrong food science and processing expertise, with proven scale-up capabilityDeep knowledge of food safety, quality systems and regulatory complianceStrong commercial acumen with ownership of cost and margin performanceExperience leading cross-functional teams and complex projectsA strategic, consumer-led mindset and the ability to operate at paceSalary & Benefits£60,000 – £65,000 basic salaryGenerous company pension scheme22 days holiday + bank holidaysFor a confidential discussion, please get in touch.