New Product Development Manager

About the Business

My client is a fast-growing hospitality group operating across multiple QSR concepts. With a centralised head office in South London and a fully integrated supply chain, they take pride in controlling every aspect of our product development and delivery process.

This role sits within their dedicated Product and Innovation function and plays a crucial role in the continued growth and relevance of our dessert-led flagship brand.

Role Overview

They are looking for a New Product Development Manager to lead the creation, optimisation, and commercial evaluation of menu items with a strong focus on desserts and beverages. You will be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of products, from concept through to market launch, and expected to be hands-on in the kitchen and lab from day one.

Reporting directly to the founder, this is a highly strategic and operational role with real influence on business performance and customer experience.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Bi-Annual Menu Development: Drive updates to the menu every six months, creating new food and drink offerings aligned with seasonal trends and consumer preferences.Manage Full Product Lifecycle: Evaluate existing menu items, remove underperforming SKUs, and introduce high-performing, profitable alternatives.Innovation with Commercial Focus: Balance creativity and customer appeal with strong cost control and operational feasibility.Ensure Compliance: Manage allergen information, calorie counts, and meet all legal and nutritional compliance requirements.Trend & Consumer Insight: Build a deep understanding of consumer preferences, especially females aged 15–35 and Gen Z customers.Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Work closely with teams in marketing, operations, and supply chain, as well as external suppliers and manufacturing partners.Supplier Engagement: Manage and build strong supplier relationships to ensure quality ingredients and efficient sourcing.

What Success Looks Like

Successful launch and performance of new menu itemsImproved profitability across product rangeHigh levels of innovation and Gen Z engagementSeamless operational rollout of new productsReduction of low-performing or outdated menu items

About You

Experienced in NPD, ideally within QSR or Restaurant environmentsComfortable working hands-on in kitchen/lab settingsHighly creative but commercially groundedStrong understanding of product costing, margin management, and operational deliveryFamiliar with food trends, customer insights, and consumer psychologyExcellent communicator and collaborative team playerPassion for food, innovation, and fast-paced environments

What’s on Offer

Competitive base salary: £43,000–£47,000 depending on experienceStatutory pension and enhanced healthcare coverageFlexible and field-based working structureTravel expenses covered for trips outside London