New Product Development Manager (npd) in Leicester, East Midlands

Leicester

permanent, full-time

£40,000 - £45,000 per annum

UK working eligibility only.

Working in Leicester, East Midlands

Leicester, in the East Midlands, is one of the UK’s most diverse and vibrant cities, offering a strong mix of industries and employment opportunities. Traditionally a centre for textiles and manufacturing, Leicester has expanded into sectors such as healthcare, education, engineering, IT, and finance. The city is home to two major universities, which contribute to research, innovation, and a steady flow of skilled graduates into the local workforce. Leicester’s central location, with excellent road and rail links via the M1, A46, and Midland Main Line, makes it attractive for businesses and commuters alike. Employers include NHS trusts, local authorities, retailers, and professional services, alongside a growing number of digital and technology companies. Regeneration projects have boosted the city centre and surrounding areas, supporting job creation and investment. For professionals, Leicester offers diverse career options, affordable housing, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it one of the East Midlands’ most appealing employment destinations.

About Hospitality & Catering

Hospitality plays a central role in the UK economy, covering hotels, restaurants, events, and tourism. Careers range from chefs and front-of-house staff to hotel managers and event planners. Employers include independent businesses, large hotel chains, and catering groups. Demand remains high for skilled professionals in customer service and food preparation. Hospitality offers variety, creativity, and people-focused roles, often with flexible working hours and opportunities worldwide. The sector continues to adapt, with sustainability, food innovation, and guest experience shaping future growth.

A fast-growing, premium QSR brand is looking for a passionate and commercially minded NPD professional to join their team in a newly created role. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key part in shaping the future of an expanding brand within the UK market.

The Role

Reporting into senior leadership, this position will take ownership of menu development across the full QSR offering. You will lead both new product innovation and enhancement of existing menu items, helping drive seasonal launches and continuous improvement across the brand’s food proposition.

This is a highly collaborative, cross-functional role working closely with Operations, Marketing, and wider business teams to ensure new products are commercially viable, operationally deliverable, and aligned with brand strategy.

Key Responsibilities

Lead development and delivery of new menu items across the full product range
Manage innovation cycles, including seasonal and limited-time offerings
Review and refine existing products to improve quality, consistency, and commercial performance
Work closely with Operations teams to ensure successful product rollouts
Collaborate with Marketing and leadership teams on product strategy and launches

About You

Experience within QSR, multi-site hospitality, or branded food led concepts
Strong food knowledge with a genuine passion for product innovation
Commercially aware with an understanding of operational realities in fast-paced environments
Creative, collaborative, and comfortable working cross-functionally
Open to candidates from non-traditional NPD backgrounds if they bring strong food and multi-site experience

The Offer

£40,000 – £45,000 salary
Opportunity to shape and build a brand new role within a rapidly growing premium QSR business
Clear exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making

If you are passionate about food innovation and want to help shape the future menu of an exciting growth brand, we would love to hear from you.