The Company

This established food business has it all – the combination of stability / security and a great reputation balanced with a forward thinking, entrepreneurial approach.

They are currently in an exciting phase of growth as a category leader and to help drive their ambitious innovation strategy forward, they are looking for a confident and highly capable Head of Product (Food) to join their team.

The Role

This is an all-encompassing role where you will drive and implement the NPD strategy and processes, as well as working in partnership with retail customers to help shape the category and deliver best-in-class products to the market. Building strong relationships with your customers, being the key point of contact and understanding their needs is a huge part of the role.

You’ll also need to ensure that the existing products are the best they can be, whilst strategically linking manufacturing capability and the portfolio strategy to develop relevant ranges. You’ll be a natural at keeping up to speed with new trends across the world and how they can be incorporated into products, demonstrating creative flair that will delight discerning consumers.

The other key aspect is the development, coaching and leadership of the UK retail product management team who you will be able to motivate and inspire to deliver culinary innovation with passion, pride and teamwork.

This role will also require some travel to the European and UK manufacturing sites as well as visiting customers and suppliers.

The Person

We are looking for an accomplished and commercially focussed NPD Controller / Head of NPD with experience gained from a fast-paced chilled food manufacturing or branded food business. Experience of leading retailer relationships and an understanding of how to deliver innovation to consumers is something you excel at.

As a confident and dependable leader, you will have previously driven the strategic NPD agenda and have a boundless passion for food trends with a real drive to succeed. A people-person through and through, your highly developed team management experience will be a major strength of yours. Furthermore, you will have a history of aligning and motivating NPD teams to perform to the absolute best of their abilities.

You may be working in a similar role already and be aspiring to join a company that can fully recognise your potential.

If you are ready to make your mark with this leading food business then apply today or get in touch with Georgina for a confidential chat - 0345 2600 737 / Georgina@blue-spark.org.uk

Ref: 6928

Due to the large number of applications our opportunities attract, it sometimes takes us time to thoroughly review and consider them all. We endeavour to respond to every application within 5 working days, however if you have not heard from us within this timeframe, we are sorry to say your application for the role has not been successful. To support you in showcasing your best self, we make sure that any necessary accommodations, whether physical or non-physical, are provided to assist you throughout the job application and interview process.

Also, please note that we are only able to accept and respond to applications from candidates with eligibility to work in the UK and those who hold valid work visas