Interim Innovation Manager (6-month contract)

Location: London (Hybrid – 2–3 days per week in office)
Rate: £33.52 per hour
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract length: Approximately 6 months

We are seeking an experienced Innovation Manager to join a fast-paced marketing function on an interim basis. This role will support the development and delivery of a strong new product pipeline, driving innovation from early insight through to commercial launch.

Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will play a key role in identifying growth opportunities, shaping innovation strategy, and ensuring new product developments meet both consumer needs and commercial objectives.

Key responsibilities

Innovation & Strategy

• Maintain and develop the innovation funnel aligned to brand and sales objectives
• Monitor competitors, market trends and retailer strategies to maintain competitive advantage

Consumer Insight & Exploration

• Commission and manage qualitative and quantitative consumer research
• Identify unmet needs, white-space opportunities and emerging trends
• Leverage insight tools to develop a deep understanding of target consumers

Concept Development

• Partner with marketing and R&D to create compelling, viable product concepts
• Plan and manage concept testing and validation activity

Commercialisation

• Build and deliver robust business cases, including margin and cost considerations
• Lead cross-functional project teams through the stage-gate process
• Define product briefs including claims, technical requirements and features
• Oversee packaging development and relevant testing activity

Leadership

• Provide clear leadership across multifunctional teams
• Manage budgets and control NPD expenditure
• Collaborate with international stakeholders to maximise launch potential

Skills and experience required

• Significant experience (typically 8+ years) within innovation, NPD or marketing in a consumer goods environment
• Proven track record of delivering successful, insight-led new product development
• Strong understanding of consumer research methodologies (qualitative and quantitative)
• Experience working closely with R&D, procurement, manufacturing and external agencies
• Solid knowledge of packaging development and technical product requirements
• Commercially astute, with strong financial and margin awareness
• Confident communicator with the ability to influence senior stakeholders
• Creative, pragmatic and highly organised, with a “can-do” attitude
• Comfortable working at pace and adapting to changing priorities

What’s on offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £33.52
• Hybrid working with a minimum of 2–3 days per week in a London office
• Opportunity to make a tangible impact within a high-profile innovation agenda

This role would suit an experienced Innovation Manager or senior marketer looking for a hands-on interim assignment where they can quickly add value.