Head of NPD

80000 - 100000 per annum + TBCLondon, England Permanent Head of New Product Development (NPD)Location: Hybrid (UK-based)Salary: Highly competitive + packageOverviewAn exciting opportunity has been created for a Head of New Product Development to join a market-leading organisation within the consumer health sector.This is a brand-new role, introduced as part of a wider global transformation programme, where the business is investing heavily in innovation, capability, and international growth. With an established presence across multiple markets and ambitious plans to expand further, NPD is at the heart of the next phase of evolution.This role will take ownership of shaping and delivering a best-in-class innovation strategy, driving the end-to-end development of new products and ensuring alignment with both commercial and brand objectives globally.Key ResponsibilitiesInnovation Strategy & Pipeline LeadershipDefine and lead the global NPD roadmap, aligned to long-term business growth plansBuild and manage a robust innovation pipeline across multiple markets and categoriesTranslate consumer insight and commercial priorities into actionable development plansIdentify opportunities across formats, ingredients, claims, and packaging innovationEnd-to-End Product DevelopmentLead the full lifecycle from concept through to launch and post-launch reviewOversee formulation, product testing, packaging development, and validationEnsure smooth transition from development into manufacturing and scale-upDrive pace and efficiency across the stage-gate processMarket & Consumer InsightMonitor global market trends, emerging ingredients, and regulatory developmentsLeverage data and insight to inform innovation strategy and product positioningMaintain a competitive edge within a fast-evolving, science-led categoryCross-Functional LeadershipPartner closely with R&D, Marketing, Supply Chain, Regulatory, and Commercial teamsInfluence senior stakeholders and ensure alignment across global functionsBuild and lead a high-performing NPD capability as the function continues to evolveTransformation & Capability BuildingPlay a key role in the organisation's global transformation, embedding scalable NPD processesIntroduce structure, governance, and best practice across innovation and deliveryDrive continuous improvement in time-to-market, quality, and commercial success ratesRequirementsEssentialSignificant experience leading NPD within pharmaceuticals, consumer health, FMCG, or food supplementsProven track record of delivering successful product launches at scaleStrong understanding of formulation, manufacturing, and commercialisation processesExperience operating in multi-market or global environmentsAbility to lead cross-functional teams and influence at senior levelDesirableBackground in pharmaceuticals, supplements, or regulated health productsKnowledge of global regulatory frameworks and health claimsExperience building or transforming NPD functionsExposure to fast-growth or innovation-led environmentsWhy Join?Newly created leadership role with real influence and visibilityBe part of a major global transformation journeyShape the future innovation strategy of a highly respected brandWork within a collaborative, ambitious, and growth-focused environmentStrong long-term career progression opportunities