NPD Manager

Job Title: NPD Manager Location: Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.00am - 4.30pmDescription:We are hiring for our client, a leading food manufacturing business based in Dublin 15, who are seeking an experienced NPD Manager to join their innovative and fast-paced team.This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious, creative, and organised food professional with a genuine passion for product development and an understanding of commercial realities. The successful NPD Manager will work closely with retail and foodservice customers, leading projects from concept to launch, ensuring all products meet the highest standards of quality, taste, and compliance.Top 3 Things to Know About this Job:Creative and Commercial Role: Blend your passion for food innovation with the opportunity to deliver high-quality, commercially successful products.Customer-Facing Projects: Work directly with major retailers and foodservice clients across multiple categories.Career Growth: Join a forward-thinking business that values initiative, collaboration, and professional development.The Role:* Lead assigned product development projects from initial concept to launch, following the stage gate process. * Act as the main point of contact for multiple retail and foodservice customers, managing briefs and delivering on expectations. * Prepare and present product samples at internal and external meetings, including setting up displays and leading discussions. * Conduct benchmarking, sensory analysis, and gap analysis across product ranges. * Work collaboratively with Quality, Commercial, Production, Procurement, and Marketing to deliver new and improved products. * Ensure full compliance with customer specifications, food safety, and labelling regulations in collaboration with Technical and Procurement teams. * Maintain documentation including HACCP risk assessments, QAS, critical paths, and product specifications. * Identify opportunities for recipe improvements, cost savings, and process efficiencies. * Manage all aspects of sample preparation, production trials, and post-launch evaluations. * Contribute to R&D and innovation projects aligned with business strategy.The Person:* Degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, Food Innovation, or a related field. * Minimum 4-5 years' experience in a similar role within a high-risk food manufacturing environment. * Proven track record of managing NPD projects from concept through to launch. * Excellent project management and time management skills with the ability to prioritise competing deadlines. * Strong commercial awareness and understanding of customer requirements. * Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels. * Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other MS Office applications. * Full driving licence and access to a car. * A genuine passion for food and innovation, with an energetic and flexible approach.The Rewards:* Competitive salary and benefits package. * Opportunity to work with leading retailers and foodservice providers. * Dynamic and supportive work environment. * Monday-Friday working hours, offering excellent work-life balance. * Career progression opportunities within a growing, innovative business.