Innovation Manager

Description:

Innovations Manager

Hemel Hempstead , UK

£ Competitive Salary + Benefits

At this company, we're dedicated to pioneering the future of soft drinks through innovative breakthroughs. As a leading player in the FMCG industry, we continually set high standards and push the boundaries beyond traditional bottling. Our diverse portfolio includes a range of renowned soft drink brands designed to elevate everyday moments.

About the Role: As the R&D Product Innovation Manager, you'll harness your expertise in soft drinks, packaging, and quality to spearhead new capabilities and technologies within our Beyond the Bottle initiative. Working closely with global technical and marketing teams, you'll craft a long-term innovation strategy aligned with our business priorities, focusing on driving brand growth, pioneering breakthrough innovations, and exploring new market opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

* Lead strategic innovation projects to develop the unpackaged drink platform, driving informed decisions on product innovation strategy.

* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver platform objectives, particularly with our Beyond The Bottle/Dispense teams.

* Cultivate relationships with the supplier community to explore next-generation technology opportunities.

* Establish partnerships with universities, technology partners, and third parties to explore new product and packaging innovation opportunities.

* Manage a portfolio of Product Innovation Projects aligned with business strategy, embedding innovation and technology across teams.

* Support Sustainable Business and Commercial teams with product innovation that aligns with Healthier People and Healthier Planet initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience Required:

* In-depth knowledge of soft drinks categories, product development, packaging, and quality.

* Ability to translate consumer trends, competitor activity, and environmental issues into strategic insights for Product Innovation.

* Strategic innovative mindset with the ability to engage in technical detail while considering broader perspectives.

* Understanding of marketing, legal, and regulatory challenges in product innovation and development.

* Knowledge of current environmental sustainability legislation, technologies, and trends.

Qualifications:

* Degree in a Science discipline preferred (Biology, Chemistry, or Nutrition).

* Experience in an R&D environment, testing and learning with customers.

* Experience in insight generation and opportunity identification against business objectives.

* Experience with disruptive innovation projects, utilizing Design Thinking and Agile approaches.

We're committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, providing equal opportunities for all applicants and employees. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels celebrated, safe, and respected