Process & Product Development Manager – Blackburn

Position Overview

The Process & Product Development Manager is responsible for overseeing the development and improvement of our internal EPD, production processes, product improvements and NPD development. This role bridges the gap between engineering, manufacturing, R&D, marketing, and supply chain teams to ensure that products are developed efficiently and meet both customer and business needs.

Location

Blackburn

Company Overview

With industry knowledge spanning 140 years, we’re no fish out of water!

We provide pets and wild animals all over the world with great value, tasty treats, scrumptious food, must-have accessories and products that support their health and wellbeing.

Role:

• Ensure new products are developed on time, within budget and meet quality standards.
• Work with NPD and Innovation teams to manage all EPD from product concept through to launch.
• Develop and refine production processes to ensure product and manufacturing is to the highest quality standard.
• Implement cost-effective manufacturing strategies while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Optimise processes to reduce waste, enhance efficiency, and improve overall product quality.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Commercial teams to incorporate customer feedback into the development process.
• Introduce new manufacturing technologies to streamline production.
• Evaluate and where appropriate, establish quality control processes and procedures, for both product development and production processes.
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to troubleshoot any production issues and ensure continuous improvement.
• Conduct root-cause analysis to solve product or process-related issues.
• Lead project teams to ensure timelines, budgets, and quality expectations are met.
• Maintain documentation and reporting to track the progress of product and process development efforts.
• Ensure all product development and manufacturing processes comply with industry regulations and standards.

Key attributes and skills:

• Experience from a similar Process/Product Control role gained from a food manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of EPD and NPD processes and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to lead teams and collaborate with multiple departments
• Clear and articulate communication skills
• Focused on continuous improvement