Product Development Manager

Product Development ManagerDOUGHLICIOUS CULTURE: At Doughlicious, we're more than just a business -- we're a community of passionate people who happen to love what we do. Our team thrives on the perfect blend of fun and serious dedication, much like our signature recipes. Every day brings fresh opportunities to grow and create together, fostering an environment where authentic connections flourish alongside professional growth. Whether we're conducting taste tests, refining processes, or celebrating team victories, there's an unmistakable energy that makes Doughlicious feel less like a workplace and more like a home for culinary creativity and entrepreneurialism.Reports to: CEO/TechnicalLocation: LondonDepartment: OperationsFood Manufacturing CompanyLocation Acton London, UK     Department Product Development & InnovationRole OverviewWe're seeking an innovative and strategic Product Development Manager to lead our product innovation pipeline and drive our vision of creating the next generation of better-for-you snacks. This role will oversee all aspects of product development from ideation through to commercialization, ensuring our products deliver exceptional taste, quality, and consumer appeal while meeting our commitment to clean, natural ingredients.Key ResponsibilitiesProduct Innovation & StrategyLead the development of new product concepts aligned with consumer insights, market trends, and brand strategyManage the entire product development lifecycle from ideation and recipe development through to launchDrive innovation in formulations, ingredients, and production processes to maintain competitive advantageDevelop and maintain a robust NPD pipeline with clear stage-gate processesTranslate consumer feedback and market research into actionable product improvementsTechnical LeadershipOversee recipe development and optimization to achieve the perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and functionalityEnsure all products meet food safety, quality, and regulatory requirementsLead scale-up processes from kitchen to factory production, working closely with manufacturing teamsManage ingredient sourcing strategy, identifying suppliers that meet our quality and ethical standardsStay current on food science innovations, ingredient technologies, and processing techniquesCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Marketing to ensure product positioning aligns with consumer needs and brand valuesWork closely with Operations to ensure manufacturability, cost targets, and production efficiencyCollaborate with Quality Assurance to establish and maintain product specifications and testing protocolsSupport Sales and Commercial teams with product information, samples, and launch materialsInterface with external partners including co-manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and R&D consultantsTeam ManagementBuild, lead, and mentor a high-performing product development teamFoster a culture of creativity, experimentation, and continuous improvementManage team workload, priorities, and professional developmentCreate an environment that encourages innovation while maintaining rigorous standardsProject & Budget ManagementDevelop and manage product development budgets and resource allocationEstablish clear timelines and deliverables for all projectsTrack project progress and communicate updates to senior leadershipManage capital expenditure for development equipment and facilitiesRequired QualificationsExperience7-10+ years of experience in food product development, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership roleProven track record of successfully launching products in retail or food service channelsExperience working with clean-label, better-for-you, or specialty dietary products (gluten-free, vegan, etc.) preferredBackground in frozen, chilled, or bakery products highly desirableExperience scaling products from small batch to commercial productionTechnical SkillsDeep understanding of food science, ingredient functionality, and formulation principlesKnowledge of food safety regulations, labeling requirements, and quality standards (HACCP, BRC, FDA, etc.)Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production constraintsProficiency with sensory evaluation and consumer testing methodologiesExperience with cost modeling and margin analysisLeadership & Soft SkillsExceptional leadership and people management abilitiesOutstanding project management and organizational skillsCreative problem-solver with both strategic vision and attention to detailExcellent communication skills with ability to present to senior leadership and cross-functional teamsCollaborative mindset with ability to influence without direct authorityEntrepreneurial spirit and comfort with ambiguity in a growing businessEducationBachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Arts, Chemistry, or related field requiredMaster's degree or advanced certification preferredProfessional certifications (e.g., CFS, IFT) a plusWhat We OfferCompetitive salary and Equity Share optionsComprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insuranceDoughlicious is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.www.doughlicious.co.uk