NPD Manager

Please note this is an OD vacancy. This means that only impacted at risk colleagues will be considered in the recruitment process, please therefore ensure you answer yes when asked this screening question. Anyone who applies that is not at risk will either have their application declined, or if the vacancy remains unfilled, will be considered following a round of internal and external advertising.

Purpose The NPD Manager is responsible for identifying, developing, and launching new products that align with the company's strategic goals and customer needs. This role plays a critical part in driving innovation, expanding the product portfolio, and maintaining a competitive edge in the wholesale market. Reports to Trade planning and Seasonal Manager Line Manager of N/A Contribution

• Product Strategy & Innovation
  • Identify market trends, customer needs, and gaps in the current product offering.
  • Develop and maintain a robust NPD pipeline aligned with business objectives.
  • Lead ideation sessions and feasibility assessments for new product concepts.
• Project Management
  • Manage end-to-end process from development / agreement to launch.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams including procurement, marketing, sales, and supply chain.
  • Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, meet policy standards.
  • Ensure products deliver required commercial KPI's
• Market & Competitor Analysis
  • Conduct regular market research and competitor benchmarking.
  • Use insights to identify and understand broader market innovation.
• Supplier & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to review and source new products.
  • Negotiate terms, lead times, and ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Performance Monitoring
  • Track and analyse the performance of new products post-launch.
  • Provide recommendations for improvements or discontinuation based on data.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of wholesale/retail dynamics.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Creative thinking with a customer-centric mindset.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Analytical skills with proficiency in data interpretation and reporting tools.

Work Level Descriptor

Accountability

• Professional roles providing expertise and advice, or middle management roles leading operational teams.
• Manages team delivery in accordance with agreed budgets.

Impact

• As a people-leader, takes responsibility for the delivery of operational work over short timeframes, empowering their team to deliver discrete pieces of work based on set procedures.
• As an individual contributor, provides thought leadership to determine the most effective approach to challenges within own area of expertise.
• Supports and promotes a culture of inclusivity through the actions they take.

Co-operation

• Contributes to short-term planning within the team and collaborates with peers to deliver great work that enables the team to succeed.
• Identifies and shares opportunities to improve the way the Co-op operates, to successfully achieve our vision.