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.
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.
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)
