JOB OBJECTIVE

The NPD Project Specialist is responsible for appointed NPD projects as determined by the Head of Department that will encompass product trials, EPD, sustainable packaging, branding, and product launches as required.

This product development role will ensure that new products & any changes to existing products or packaging meet all relevant quality, safety, legal and customer requirements.

As NPD project specialist, you will be responsible for driving your projects from scope generation through to finality. Direct experience in dealing with Irish retailers in a previous NPD role is required

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Performance

• Work closely with NPD team to deliver on innovation, business and factory projects.
• Manage projects for NPD from scope through to finish by using critical paths & liaising with cross functional teams
• Product research, development of concepts and presentations to customers
• Working closely with the procurement dept to source packaging
• Conducting product, packaging & factory trials
• Provide relevant & accurate information to the specifications co-ordinator in a timely & efficient manner
• Co-ordinate & manage packaging sign off as required.
• Support training of QA and production staff on new product introductions or changes to existing products
• An awareness and understanding of new and developing food legislation
• Provide support cover for NPD colleagues as required by the needs of the department.
• Flexibility in working hours will on occasion may be required dependent on project work and timelines.
• Other duties as required to ensure the business deadlines are achieved.

Quality

• Customer and supplier engagement
• Involvement in factory audits as required.

Compliance

• Comply with relevant company policies, procedures and practices
• Support the roll out of new products and processes as required
• Meet all customer & internal quality standards as required
• Comply with company reporting needs

People & Culture

• Behave in a manner that supports and demonstrates Company values, Challenge, Sense of Urgency & Openness

Willingness to learn and share skills and experience with colleagues, and integrate into an established NPD team

REQUIREMENTS

Experience

• Minimum 2-3 years’ experience in food product development
• Must have direct experience in working in an NPD role with Irish retailers
• Experience of working in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
• Experience in food packaging / sustainable packaging is a distinct advantage
• Must be proficient in MS Office and knowledge in ERP system use.

Educational Qualifications

• Formal 3rd level qualification in food science or food related discipline

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Competencies

• Positive engagement with inter-departmental teams
• Promote confidence and positive attitude through honesty and professionalism in all interactions.
• Builds and maintains relationships with others at all levels to develop mutually beneficial outcomes. Uses diplomacy, tact, and interpersonal skills to support others.
• Effectively convey information and expresses thoughts and facts in a manner that will constructively persuade, convince, and influence others.
• The ability to make informed, effective, and timely decisions in a manner that is collaborative and inclusive of business needs.
• The ability to understand and consider the NPD departments long-term vision and objectives when carrying out activities.

Key Skills

• Excellent organisational and communication skills, both written and verbally with the ability to work under pressure and prioritise and deliver against tight deadlines.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to challenge the status quo
• Self-motivated and able to act on own initiative.
• Strong experience in leading projects and meetings
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Logical and methodical thinker, with practical experience in problem solving and analytical skills.
• Flexible and resilient approach and keen to learn.
• Demonstrates Integrity, Trust and Accountability

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR (S)

To be agreed upon appointment

Salary dependant on experience, proven track record and formal education.