NPD Manager - (Fixed-Term Contract, Maternity Cover)

at  Allied Bakeries

Allied Bakeries make the top bread brands Kingsmill, Allinson’s and Sunblest. Across our bakeries we make white, wholemeal and seeded market-leading loaves, as well as Kingsmill 50/50, the nation’s favourite Healthier White, delicious pancakes, crumpets, hot cross buns and more.
We take massive pride in our brands and all that we do, including our bakeries having one of the best safety performance records in the industry. We know that the success of our business depends on us having the right people on the team, so if you’re looking to join a business that values its people, encourages everyone to get involved and be the best they can be, we’d love to hear from you.
We encourage candidates to request any reasonable adjustments they may require throughout the recruitment process.

LOCATION: MAIDENHEAD

We are seeking a motivated and experienced NPD Manager to join our Central Team at Allied Bakeries, based in Maidenhead, on a fixed-term contract covering maternity leave. This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside industry experts in bakery manufacturing, offering excellent opportunities for growth and the chance to network with professionals across our wider group.
As the NPD Manager, you will lead the development of Branded and Customer Branded product solutions. You’ll play a hands-on role in bringing new product development (NPD) and existing product development (EPD) projects to life, ensuring they align with both internal and external customer strategies. This dynamic role includes managing projects from concept through to post-launch, working closely with our test bakery and ensuring the smooth scale-up of products to plant production.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree level or equivalent in Food Science, Food Technology, or related discipline.
• Good project management skills.
• Proven ability to build relationships at all levels, both internally and externally.
• Experience in retailer relationship management.
• Good presentation and communication skills.
• Self-motivated, with a proactive approach.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Full UK Driving Licence required, as travel to bakeries, customers, and suppliers is part of the role.

WHAT ARE THE KEY INGREDIENTS NEEDED FOR THE ROLE?

• Lead and manage NPD/EPD projects from approval to delivery, ensuring time, cost, and quality targets are met.
• Provide post-launch support, conducting quality assessments for up to 12 weeks depending on performance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with operational, engineering, and commercial teams.
• Provide product and ingredient expertise to internal and external customers.
• Work closely with the test bakery to deliver concept samples and ensure smooth product scale-up.
• Partner with Food Safety and procurement teams to introduce new raw materials that meet product, operational, legal, and cost requirements.
• Ensure NPD/EPD aligns with current regulations and industry initiatives.
• Support benchmarking activities for branded and customer branded products to maintain consistency and quality.