New Product Development Specialist

New Product Development Specialist

Our client, a global leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a New Product Development (NPD) Specialist. This role is central to planning and managing the end-to-end lifecycle of product and packaging innovation projects. The specialist acts as a critical liaison between R&D, Global Supply Chain, and Marketing & Sales to ensure that new product introductions and pack changes are executed with excellence, on time, and in full compliance with global regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Project Execution & Coordination

End-to-End Management: Execute NPD projects related to product and packaging changes within the corporate project management system, ensuring all initiatives align with annual plans and market requirements.

Milestone Tracking: Coordinate with cross-functional stakeholders to track project progress, manage lead times for various process steps, and organize project kick-off meetings.

System Governance: Serve as the subject matter expert for the project management system, resolving user issues and communicating system updates or process changes to the global governance team.

Process Oversight & Reporting

Timeline Integrity: Monitor and track project timelines against the master plan, proactively informing key stakeholders of potential delays or risks to the launch schedule.

Workflow Management: Manage the service request system workflow and ensure all NPD-related data and documentation are accurately maintained and updated.

Strategic Planning: Support the annual plans collection process by providing data-driven insights and activity tracking for assigned global markets.

Packaging & Artwork Development

Design Coordination: Facilitate the artwork development process by coordinating production designs that adhere to both corporate design guidelines and specific market requirements.

Layout Management: Track layout development and technical revisions based on market feedback, supporting the preparation of visuals and simulations.

Quality Assurance: Conduct rigorous follow-throughs with stakeholders during the printing, testing, and final release phases to ensure quality and brand consistency.

Requirements

Education & Experience

Education: Bachelor’s or University Degree in Management, Sciences, Engineering, or a related field; a strong background in Business or Marketing is essential.

Professional Tenure: Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in the FMCG industry, specifically within New Product Development (NPD), Marketing, or Project Management.

Track Record: Demonstrated success in managing complex, cross-functional projects from ideation to retail launch.

Technical & Functional Skills

Domain Expertise: In-depth understanding of the NPD lifecycle and project management methodologies. Strong technical knowledge of packaging and product development processes is required.

Systems Mastery: Expertise in SAP and integrated project management systems is a must.

Software Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in the MS Office suite (specifically Excel and PowerPoint).

Language Skills: Fluent written and verbal business communication skills in English.

Core Competencies

Leadership & Influence: Ability to handle multiple high-priority projects simultaneously while providing expert NPD advice to stakeholders.

Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to navigate complex multinational environments.

Problem Solving: A proactive approach to identifying process gaps and implementing corrective actions.