About the Company
A leading Australian-owned food manufacturer with a diverse portfolio of well-known snack and confectionery brands. The business operates across multiple sites in Melbourne's south‐east and is recognised for its ongoing commitment to innovation, quality, and collaboration.
With a strong culture built on teamwork, agility, and entrepreneurial thinking, this organisation provides a supportive environment where employees are empowered to experiment, learn, and contribute to exciting growth initiatives.
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced NPD Manager to join a high‐performing team in driving product innovation and reformulation projects across a dynamic range of products.
Reporting to the Head of R&D, this role will lead multiple projects from concept through to commercialisation, ensuring quality, cost, and timeline objectives are achieved. The position requires strong collaboration with cross‐functional partners including Operations, Marketing, and Engineering, along with occasional engagement with external suppliers and co‐manufacturers.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage projects across innovation, reformulation, and cost‐optimisation.
* Lead projects through the full development lifecycle from concept to launch.
* Collaborate with internal teams to deliver projects efficiently and on time.
* Engage suppliers for ingredient sourcing, trials, and costing exercises.
* Prepare and present stage‐gate reviews and progress updates to senior leaders.
Skills and Experience
You will bring:
* A degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.
* 8‐10 years' experience in NPD or R&D within snacks, confectionery, or FMCG.
* Proven track record managing multiple projects end‐to‐end.
* Strong technical understanding of food product development.
* Excellent organisational, communication, and influencing skills.
* Collaborative, adaptable, and proactive working style.
* Experience with SAP systems advantageous but not essential.
* A genuine curiosity for food and passion for innovation.
How to Apply
If you're an experienced NPD professional looking to contribute to a fast‐paced, innovation‐driven food business, we'd love to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Emily Gough (egough@sharpandcarter.com.au).
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