We are seeking an experienced and driven NPD Manager to lead the development and delivery of innovative, market-leading packaging projects across our premium portfolio. This is a pivotal role responsible for ensuring new products are developed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and regulatory standards.
You will oversee the full NPD life cycle, chairing cross-functional working groups and managing a multi-year product development plan. Working closely with Brand, Procurement, Quality, Operations, and external partners, you will ensure all projects are effectively resourced, communicated, and executed. From concept to production, you will bridge design vision with technical feasibility, ensuring packaging solutions are fit for manufacture and aligned with brand ambition.
Leading the NPD and packaging development agenda, you will guide your team to deliver against cost and timeline targets while strengthening in-house packaging expertise. You will play a key role in supplier selection and management, and your technical knowledge will support stakeholders on packaging constraints, labelling regulations, and production requirements, with responsibility for final approvals and proofing.
This role operates across a 36-month planning horizon, requiring strong organisational capability and strategic oversight. You will represent the business externally with industry bodies and suppliers, while internally driving continuous improvement through post-project reviews and policy development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and deliver multiple NPD projects across the product portfolio
- Manage the company wide NPD plan and chair project working groups
- Provide technical expertise on packaging, labelling, and production feasibility
- Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure seamless project execution
- Oversee supplier selection, approvals, and packaging production sign-off
- Manage budgets, procurement processes, and project reporting
- Line manage a small team and support wider supply chain functions
About You:
You bring proven experience in packaging technology, NPD, or project management within the drinks or FMCG sector. You have strong knowledge of packaging processes, regulatory requirements, and quality standards, alongside the ability to influence stakeholders and manage competing priorities. Highly organised and solutions-focused, you are confident leading complex projects and navigating technical challenges. You are a collaborative team leader with strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
Requirements:
- Degree in business or related discipline
- Relevant experience in packaging/NPD/project management
- Understanding of drinks industry regulations and labelling
- People management experience
- IBD Diploma in Packaging (or equivalent) preferred
- Wines/spirits qualification desirable
This is an exciting opportunity to shape premium packaging innovation within a globally respected whisky brand who have a reputation for exceptional quality and creating and delivering market packaging.
