Project Manager

Are you an ambitious Project Manager (New Product Development or Existing Product Development centric) and looking for a fresh challenge within a fast growing soft drinks business?If you hold at least 3 years' experience in NPD project management, product development or supply chain roles within a recognised food or drink manufacturer we'd love to hear from you.About the Role As the Project and Co-pack Manager you’ll play a pivotal role in bringing exciting new products and product improvements to market across the soft drink category in the UK and international market. Reporting to the Head of NPD, you will lead end-to-end project delivery, working cross-functionally with Brand marketing, Sales, Technical, Procurement and Supply Chain teams to ensure successful launches that meet quality, timing and commercial objectives. You will be leading projects from day one with full ownership of branded NPD and EPD, own label and co-pack critical paths and Stage-Gate process, as well as managing external Co-Pack relationships. To be successful in this role we are looking for an experienced project / NPD manager who can embrace working in a fast-paced environment, embraces change and is a collaborative member of a high performing team.Key ResponsibilitiesManage NPD and EPD projects from approved concept to launch, delivering on time and within budget.Establish an NPD review programme after launch as part of stage gate 5 to review the project and whether it delivered against the commercial targetsChair brand and ops every week ensuring key actions are documented and followed through, coordinating cross-functional inputs so each team delivers in line with the agreed critical pathResponsible for the coordination of our artwork approval process, including liaising with brand, NPD and technical teams as well as external artwork house to generate & approve packaging copyBuilding a wide knowledge of supplier capabilities and manufacturing methods to optimise the uniqueness of products.Being trend aware, keeping up to date with the marketplace & packaging innovations.Translating brand product strategies, annual plans and product concepts into finished product – considering packaging types (glass, caps, labels) and packaging efficiencies wherever possibleWork closely with our clients suppliers to understand their processes, capabilities and assets, utilising them and suggesting improvements where appropriate.Maintain an effective NPD process, including gate documentation, artwork reviews, stakeholder engagement, and regular team updates.Provide clear, consistent communication throughout each project.Manage detailed project budgets and provide monthly re-forecasts.Ensure sample creation, trial support, and technical preparation are delegated effectively to meet project milestones.Sharing best practice through project team working & managing multiple projects at any timeManage Co-pack relationships. Be the point of contact for our client, engaging with the relevant internal stakeholders where necessary, with clear communication to all relevant parties.Key Requirements At least 3 years' experience in NPD project management, product development or supply chain roles, within recognised food or drinks manufacturing or FMCG.Strong project management and organisational skills with a proven ability to manage projects from concept through to launch.Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams effectively.A good understanding of NPD processes, stage gate management and product launch requirements.A genuine interest in product innovation, with a passion for bringing new products to market.Able to demonstrate extensive experience of managing products through a Stage & Gate processExcellent attention to detail and communication skills and the ability to manage several projects with multiple deadlines at any one timeHas a positive, can-do approach and able to work independently & as part of a teamSelf-motivated and willing to show initiative, flexibility, and aspiration to improve working methodsWhat’s on offer Base Salary - Circa £40,000 - £50,000Annual Bonus - 10%Holiday - 25 days per annum plus 8 bank holidays and option to buy more holidayPension - Salary sacrifice scheme - 5% employer and option for 6% if employee matchesCompany sick pay scheme and enhanced maternity and paternity pay schemesCycle to work schemeFree parking on siteEmployee Assistance Plan and Medicash Healthcare SchemeThe opportunity to be part of a growing brand with heritage, ambition and drive!LocationHybrid: Predominantly site based at purpose built offices/production facilities in Nottinghamshire, with 1-2 days per week homeworking. The ideal candidate will be based within 1.5 hours drive of East Nottingham.The ProcessScreening and Shortlisting is now underway with online and onsite interviews taking place in early-mid October.Please email info@bluerice.co.uk for further information surrounding this opportunity. Job Ref - BR-1016-PM