Head of NPD & Technical

Vickerstock are proud to partner with a well-established FMCG organisation based in the Dublin area, a leading distributor of ambient food products , in the appointment of a Head of NPD & Technical. Our client has built an outstanding reputation based on product quality, strong customer relationships, and a collaborative, forward-thinking culture. This is a pivotal senior leadership role responsible for shaping and delivering a 3–5-year innovation strategy, while ensuring robust technical governance across a diverse supplier base throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe. The successful candidate will balance strategic direction with operational excellence, leading a high-performing team and managing co-manufacturing partnerships to deliver compliant, commercially successful, consumer-focused products. What’s in it for you? * Salary €80-90k DOE * Company bonus * Company pension * Employee product discounts * Flexible working schedule * On-site parking * A friendly, inclusive & growth focused environment Key Responsibilities: * Lead the Innovation & Technical function to deliver agreed KPIs and budgets * Drive the end-to-end NPD pipeline from concept to launch * Shape and execute long-term innovation strategy * Manage supplier and co-manufacturer technical relationships * Ensure compliance with BRC and relevant food safety standards * Partner cross-functionally with Commercial, Finance & Operations * Lead packaging development projects in line with both consumer appeal and sustainability goals. * Build and develop a high-performing team * Other duties as may be required What you will need: * 10+ years’ experience in food NPD and technical management roles, ideally with branded FMCG businesses. * Proven experience in leading NPD projects across fresh, frozen, and ambient categories. * Strong understanding of food legislation, safety, and audit requirements (e.g. BRC, ISO 22000). * Experience working with UK and EU co-manufacturers. * Commercial acumen, with experience working with major retail accounts. * Experience managing cross-functional teams and external factory partners. * Excellent project management, communication, and leadership skills. Get in touch: Sound like the career move you've been after and would like to hear more, pick up the phone to Anna now on T (phone number removed) or send an updated CV - in Word format - via the link on the page (or email). If this opportunity doesn't quite get the taste buds flowing but like me you are passionate about food, let's get a chat and see how I can help grow your career. PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR A FULL LIST OF OUR CURRENT VACANCIES