Lead, coach and empower the NPI team to deliver multiple commercialisation and process implementation projects, including product handover, scale-up, validation, factory implementation and launch
Set priorities, delegate project ownership, and ensure robust scopes, plans, milestones, resources, dependencies and launch-readiness criteria
Coordinate multidisciplinary internal and external stakeholders, resolve barriers and intervene when senior alignment or escalation is required
Support pilot plant work, factory trials and commercial start-ups, converting learning into validated process parameters, manufacturing instructions and operational standards
Ensure audit-ready handovers to Operations and Technical teams, supported by process capability, repeatability, quality performance and validation documentation
Guide raw material and packaging specification evaluations and packaging implementation or change programmes
Ensure products, packaging and process changes meet food legislation, customer codes of practice, food safety policies and internal quality systems
Manage the cross-functional master schedule and identify and mitigate technical, quality, operational and regulatory risks
Provide oversight of stage-gate and governance reviews, progress updates, risks, resources and launch readiness
Hold the team accountable for launch approvals and post-launch reviews
Build relationships with suppliers, packaging partners, contract manufacturers and customer technical teams
Lead team development through objectives, coaching, feedback, succession planning, recognition and performance management
Lead R&D strategy delivery on site and contribute to site strategy, continuous improvement, cost optimisation and standardised NPI processes
Requirements
Typically, 5 years relevant experience in NPI, process development, commercialisation or product implementation within food manufacturing
Demonstrated ability to set direction, delegate effectively, coach others, build accountability and intervene appropriately when management oversight is required
Degree qualification in Food Science, Food Technology, Dairy Science, Engineering or a related discipline
Strong understanding of food manufacturing processes, factory trials, scale-up, validation and operational readiness
Knowledge of food safety and quality management systems, regulatory compliance, product specifications, allergen management, labelling and customer approval requirements
Excellent project governance, communication and stakeholder management skills, with sound judgement in prioritisation, escalation and decision-making
Strong problem-solving capability and the confidence to make informed decisions under pressure
Dairy, spreads, cheese, chilled foods or packaging experience would be advantageous
A Project Management qualification, Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent would be beneficial
Core Competencies
Demonstrates expertise in leading NPI projects within food manufacturing, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and quality management systems while effectively managing cross-functional teams and stakeholder relationships.
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