NPD and Technical Manager

Our client is a leading international company in the food industry, specializing in the development and distribution of high-quality food products such as poultry, meats, dairy, fruits and vegetables, and more. Founded over 50 years ago, the company currently has opened over 20 offices operating in 21 countries. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, our client employs a dedicated team of professionals to work closely with their suppliers and partners to ensure the highest standards of quality and compliance. Currently, they are seeking an experienced NPD & Technical Manager to lead the product development processes and provide regional technical and administrative support to the organization and their customers.

The NPD & Technical Manager will work independently to oversee the product development process, to ensure product regulatory compliance and quality control, as well as collaborate with teams in the Netherlands and Southeast Asia to manage supplier relationships and provide technical and administrative support to customers. This will involve the following key responsibilities:

• Oversee the entire product development process from initial concept to product launch.
• Supervise product trials processes, such as sensory and shelf-life assessments.
• Work closely with commercial and technical teams and suppliers overseas.
• Oversee technical documentation to ensure adherence to regulatory standards.
• Advise suppliers on customers technical requirements.
• Monitor product quality by reviewing PQA reports, identifying deviations from specifications, and implementing and following up on corrective actions.
• Act promptly when issues arise and collaborate with the relevant factory departments to resolve and prevent future problems.
• Create product specifications, including ingredient declarations, QUID/meat content, nutritional information, and review labeling and artwork for accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Update and validate customer specifications.
• Build and maintain long-lasting relationship with suppliers.
• Address customer complaints by sharing details with suppliers and collaborating with them to establish corrective and preventive actions.
• Ensure that all customer requirements have been acknowledged and distributed to concerned departments.
• Coordinate with external service / supplier (e.g., laboratories, ingredient house, packaging).
• Provide support and preparation for customer visits.
• Provide technical support to the Thai office and offices abroad.

Qualifications:

• Qualified to degree level in a related field such as Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.
• Have at least 10+ years experience in product development in food industry. Prior experience in poultry products is a plus.
• Proven track record of successful product launches.
• Strong background and Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, BRC, and food safety and quality standard systems.
• Excellent verbal and written command in English and Thai language skills.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects effectively.
• Independent and driven, with the ability to lead discussions with suppliers.
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Having a car and valid driving license for visiting suppliers in Thailand is a plus.
• Flexibility for extended travels throughout Asia is essential.