Head of Innovation

Head of Innovation Are you a hands-on innovator in the drinks space with a passion for trend-led product development?An exciting opportunity has arisen for a dynamic and commercially-minded Head of Innovation to lead the creation of a next-generation functional drinks portfolio. This is a confidential appointment on behalf of a fast-growing business at the forefront of product innovation within the health and wellness category.The OpportunityThis role is ideal for a forward-thinking food scientist or NPD leader who blends technical expertise with entrepreneurial drive. You’ll lead the end-to-end development of functional beverages, from energy drinks and RTDs to vitamin waters and clean-label innovations, bringing new products to life ahead of the market curve. With in-house pilot capabilities and creative freedom, you’ll play a critical role in shaping what’s next in the drinks category.What You’ll Be DoingLeading NPD across multiple categories and formats, from concept to pilot productionTranslating health, flavour, ingredient, and packaging trends into commercially viable productsCreating a ready-to-go library of functional drink formulationsWorking hands-on in the lab, formulating, testing, and refining prototypesPartnering with flavour houses, packaging suppliers, and internal stakeholdersSupporting costing, feasibility analysis, and go-to-market planningInfluencing packaging, process, and machinery decisions based on innovation needsWhat We’re Looking ForA degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Nutrition, or similar5+ years of drinks NPD experience (functional food/drink, health and wellness, or FMCG)Hands-on formulation experience with strong lab capabilityCommercial acumen and understanding of cost structures, margins, and scalabilityPassionate about emerging trends in consumer health, ingredients, and packagingEntrepreneurial, proactive, and excited by the pace of growth and innovationBonus: experience working in start-up, scale-up, or agile environmentsPackage: Competitive Salary (Depending on experience) + BenefitsLocation: Sunderland (37.5hrs per week)Contract: Full-time, PermanentSector: FMCG / Food & BeveragePlease note: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK

Created: 2025-07-21