Innovation Manager Food

Job Description

Are you a hands-on innovation expert with a passion for pets Ready to shape the future of some of the UKs most loved pet brands

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading pet food and accessories manufacturer with over 135 years of expertise and an ambitious growth agenda.

Were looking for a commercially minded creativeInnovation Managerto lead New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD) projects from concept through to launch - driving innovation across a diverse and growing portfolio.

About the Role

Reporting to the Innovation Controller youll play a pivotal role in delivering the innovation pipeline across multiple brands and categories.

Youll take ownership of projects end-to-end bringing ideas to life working cross-functionally and ensuring successful launches that meet both consumer needs and commercial goals.

What Youll Be Doing

• LeadNPD & EPD projectsfrom concept to launch across product and packaging
• Develop and deliver innovation through astage & gate process
• Identify new opportunities usingconsumer shopper and market insights
• Create and managecritical paths ensuring projects land on time
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Brand R&D Commercial Procurement and Operations
• Develop compellingproduct propositionswith clear target audiences
• Managesupplier relationshipsand support production trials
• Build and presentsell-in decksto internal stakeholders and major retailers
• Monitor market trends and competitor activity to drive continuous innovation
• Contribute to big bet innovation projects and launch strategies

What Were Looking For

Youre a strategic thinker who loves getting stuck in. Youre just as comfortable analysing data as you are presenting big ideas.

Essential experience:

• Degree in Marketing or similar
• 4 years ininnovation / NPD roleswithin FMCG or a brand-led business
• Proven track record of deliveringproduct launches from concept to market
• Strong experience withstage & gate processesandcritical path management
• Commercial acumen includingcostings pricing and profitability
• Experience working withretailers (especially grocery)
• Strong stakeholder management across internal teams and external partners

Youll also be:

• Highly organised and able to manage multiple complex projects
• Creative proactive and solutions-focused
• Confident presenting to senior stakeholders and retailers
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced high-growth environment
• A genuinepet lover