Innovation Manager

Job Description Are you a hands-on innovation expert with a passion for pets? Ready to shape the future of some of the UKs most loved pet brands?This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading pet food and accessories manufacturer with over 135 years of expertise and an ambitious growth agenda.Were looking for a commercially minded, creative Innovation Manager to lead New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD) projects from concept through to launch - driving innovation across a diverse and growing portfolio.About the RoleReporting to the Innovation Controller, youll play a pivotal role in delivering the innovation pipeline across multiple brands and categories.Youll take ownership of projects end-to-end, bringing ideas to life, working cross-functionally, and ensuring successful launches that meet both consumer needs and commercial goals.What Youll Be DoingLead NPD & EPD projects from concept to launch across product and packagingDevelop and deliver innovation through a stage & gate processIdentify new opportunities using consumer, shopper, and market insightsCreate and manage critical paths, ensuring projects land on timeCollaborate with cross-functional teams including Brand, R&D, Commercial, Procurement, and OperationsDevelop compelling product propositions with clear target audiencesManage supplier relationships and support production trialsBuild and present sell-in decks to internal stakeholders and major retailersMonitor market trends and competitor activity to drive continuous innovationContribute to big bet innovation projects and launch strategiesWhat Were Looking ForYoure a strategic thinker who loves getting stuck in. Youre just as comfortable analysing data as you are presenting big ideas.Essential experience:Degree in Marketing or similar4+ years in innovation / NPD roles within FMCG or a brand-led businessProven track record of delivering product launches from concept to marketStrong experience with stage & gate processes and critical path managementCommercial acumen, including costings, pricing, and profitabilityExperience working with retailers (especially grocery)Strong stakeholder management across internal teams and external partnersYoull also be:Highly organised and able to manage multiple complex projectsCreative, proactive, and solutions-focusedConfident presenting to senior stakeholders and retailersComfortable working in a fast-paced, high-growth environmentA genuine pet lover

Created: 2026-04-29