New Product Development (NPD) Manager

Job Title: New Product Development (NPD) Manager

Location: SE1, London (Southwark)

Reports to: Head of Quality Assurance

Department: Category & Product

Employment Type: Full-time

Salary: Competitive

Role Overview

Black Sheep Coffee is seeking a creative and driven New Product Development (NPD) Manager to lead the innovation and evolution of our food and drink offerings across the UK, US, and Middle East markets. As part of the Category & Product team, which includes Supply Chain, Data & Analytics, and Marketing, you will oversee the full product lifecycle from ideation to launch ensuring all products meet Black Sheep Coffee’s high standards of quality and brand alignment.

This role combines strategic planning, market research, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure we remain ahead of industry trends. The NPD Manager will also contribute valuable insights through regular Quarterly Trend Reports and Competitor Analysis Reports, shaping long-term product strategies.

Key Responsibilities

1. New Product Development

• Lead the end-to-end development process for food and drink products, focusing on global market requirements and customer preferences.
• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., Supply Chain, Marketing, and Data & Analytics) and external suppliers to refine and perfect products.
• Conduct in-depth market research to identify trends, competitive insights, and emerging consumer demands, ensuring Black Sheep Coffee’s offerings remain innovative and market-leading.

2. Quarterly Trend Reports

• Produce detailed Quarterly Trend Reports, highlighting industry innovations, customer preferences, and emerging global food and beverage trends.
• Leverage insights to guide product development strategy and maintain a competitive edge.
• Present actionable findings to senior leadership and key stakeholders, influencing product roadmaps.

3. Competitor Analysis

• Develop and maintain comprehensive Competitor Analysis Reports, identifying key differentiators and trends in the market.
• Use insights to shape product development decisions, ensuring Black Sheep Coffee stays ahead in quality, innovation, and appeal.
• Share findings with cross-functional teams to inform broader business strategies.

4. Product Launch Coordination

• Partner with the Brand and Compliance Department to ensure all product launches comply with allergen and safety regulations across global markets.
• Collaborate with the L&D Content Creator to produce training materials and 'How-To' guides, equipping teams for successful product rollouts.
• Work with Marketing to develop localized promotional materials and campaigns tailored to global audiences.

5. Seasonal Product Launch Calendar

• Create and manage a seasonal calendar for global product launches, strategically planning releases to keep offerings exciting and relevant.
• Ensure timely execution of launches that resonate with customer preferences while aligning with Black Sheep Coffee’s sales objectives.

6. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with the Category & Product team, including Supply Chain, Data & Analytics, and Marketing, to ensure seamless execution of product initiatives.
• Act as the central contact for global teams, ensuring alignment and smooth communication across regions.

About You

• A Bachelor's degree in Business, Food Science, Marketing, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in product development and management, ideally within the food and beverage industry and with global or multi-market exposure.
• Proven expertise in conducting trend and competitor analysis, translating findings into actionable product strategies.
• Solid understanding of allergen regulations, product labelling, and food safety standards across multiple markets.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating with diverse teams and external suppliers.
• Passionate about food and drink trends, with the creativity to transform insights into globally relevant products.
• Detail-oriented, innovative, and driven to maintain high standards across all regions.

About Black Sheep Coffee…

Join the thriving team at Black Sheep Coffee, the rapidly expanding 4th largest coffee chain in the UK. With our sights set on further growth, this is an exciting opportunity to be part of our success story.

Since our establishment in 2013, we have captivated coffee lovers with our commitment to quality and innovation. As a testament to our dedication, we have risen to become one of the leading players in the UK coffee scene.

With our continuous expansion plans, there has never been a more exciting time to join us. As a member of our team, you will have the chance to contribute to our upward trajectory and be part of our ambitious journey towards shaping the future of the coffee industry.

We foster a dynamic and collaborative work environment where your ideas are valued, and your professional growth is encouraged. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and a passion for excellence, we provide a supportive platform for you to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of a rapidly growing company that values innovation, quality, and the power of exceptional coffee. Join Black Sheep Coffee today and embark on a rewarding career that offers unlimited potential.