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Innovation Manager

United Kingdom
St Albans
Kiddylicious was built on the firm belief that great taste is the key to developing a positive attitude to food in later life. So, we work hard to develop yummy, nutritious options that are specially created for weaning babies, tiny tummies and growing children.   Our Commitments   Taste is at the heart of everything we createOur finger foods encourage little ones to feed themselvesOur allergen-friendly range means that there’s something for everyonePortion-controlled snacks to ensure that parents are giving their little ones just the right amountWe innovate non-stop – we push ourselves to introduce new options and greater variety for parents  We’re proud to say that Kiddylicious is now:   The #1 UK baby finger food brand with a 38% market share Most bought baby finger food brand  Part of the Lotus Bakeries Natural Foods family of brands
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Kiddylicious team in UK

Job description

Your role as an NPD manager is to the support the development and optimisation of the company’s product range in line with the strategy defined for the business. You will work on EPD for both products and pack formats as well as introduce and refine new innovative product concepts through the development process, ensuring that technical and quality standard are achieved and maintained. Working closely with all cross functional teams you will lead and project manage all EPD and NPD from concept to a successful launch.

  • Support the head of NPD in the development of the NPD pipeline and strategy for the coming years by providing NPD expertise, advising on technical and operational requirements and sharing market knowledge.
  • Project manage all NPD projects from concept to launch working closely with all cross functional teams, ensuring all timelines and criteria are met, to deliver truly innovate NPD, often working to tight deadlines and in line with the business strategy.
  • Draw on existing and build new supplier relationships to source innovation.
  • Identify and deliver EPD projects both on product and packaging to ensure constant improvement of our core product range.
  • Be aware of the relevant food legislation and requirements for the product range, as well as offering guidance on packaging and health claim compliance
  • Work closely with our manufacturing partners to ensure every product is produced to the highest standards, identifying and rolling out opportunities for improved practice.
  • The role will require travel to our supplier base and relevant trade shows.

Profile

Alongside living our TOP values of Team Spirit, Open Dialogue, and Passion, the most important things we’re looking for from you are:

  • 4+ years’ experience in a similar NPD role
  • Proven track record of NPD success
  • Good understanding of quality functions
  • Good understanding of packaging
  • Good organisation and project management skills
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Strong presentation skills (with the confidence to influence at senior level)

You will ideally be educated to a degree level in food science, food technology or nutrition related discipline and possess previous product development and project management experience.

You will have a passion for product innovation, a creative flair, a good understanding of market trends plus possess excellent communication skills.

Employees in the office in Baar, Switzerland

"Our working atmosphere is really unique. People are passionate about their work, hard-working and very driven to further grow & improve the business. At the same time, it is an enjoyable working environment with little stress and where everyone is willing to help each other. A perfect balance for me."

Testimonial - Anouck Draps

Anouck Draps

Global E-Commerce Development Manager Natural Foods

Offer

Grasp the opportunity to join an ambitious and driven team with a mix of talents! Being part of a fast growing, international company, you will get tons of on-the-job-learning and acquire new insights.

In addition, you will be part of a culture where passion, team spirit and open dialogue are our main drivers.

And of course, on top of that, you can enjoy delicious branded snacks every day!

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Do you want to be part of a terrific team with the ambition to create small moments of happiness every day? Meet our people, discover their unique skills and get excited to join them in a great work environment.

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