NPD Manager
*Annual Salary: £40k-£45k
*Location: Kent (3 days on-site)
*Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
We are seeking a talented and driven NPD Manager to join our dynamic team. This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of the full new product development lifecycle, from startups launching their first product to established brands expanding their portfolios. As a technical expert, you will guide clients from their initial introduction call to the final formulation packs ready for production. This client-facing role requires a blend of deep technical formulation expertise and strong commercial awareness.
Day-to-day of the role:
*Lead the end-to-end NPD process for new customers, managing every stage from the initial introduction call to the completion of formulation packs.
*Tailor approaches to meet the needs of a diverse client base, from early-stage startups to large established brands.
*Develop innovative, compliant, and commercially viable food supplement formulations across various formats such as capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids.
*Collaborate with flavourists in the lab to optimise taste, texture, and overall product experience.
*Prepare detailed formulation packs, technical specifications, and supporting documentation for production handover.
*Conduct face-to-face consultations with clients to ideate, theorise, and discuss product uniqueness, effectiveness, and commercial viability.
*Translate client briefs and market trends into actionable formulation strategies and present these to clients with clarity and confidence.
*Manage and prioritise a pipeline of NPD projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
*Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, quality assurance, regulatory, and production teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
*Degree in Food Science, Nutrition, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
*Proven experience in NPD formulation within the food supplements, nutraceuticals, or functional foods sector.
*Strong knowledge of supplement ingredients, dosage forms, and current market trends.
*Understanding of UK/EU food supplement regulations and labelling requirements.
*Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the confidence to lead client-facing meetings.
*Strong organisational skills, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
*A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a genuine passion for product innovation.
Desirable:
*Experience in a contract manufacturing environment.
*Knowledge of flavour development and sensory evaluation.
*Familiarity with novel ingredients and emerging supplement trends (e.g., nootropics, adaptogens, sports nutrition).
Benefits:
*A collaborative and innovative working environment at the forefront of the food supplement industry.
*The opportunity to work on a varied and exciting portfolio of products for clients ranging from startups to household names.
*Career development and progression opportunities.
*Competitive salary and benefits package.
To apply for the NPD Manager position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.