Project Manager - New Product Introduction

Date: 18 Jul 2025

Location: Mentone, VIC, AU, 3194

Company: Simplot

In Australia, the J.R. Simplot Company's core operations are food manufacturing and agriculture, encompassing potato, vegetable, seafood and sauce operations. We supply a wide range of frozen, shelf-stable and chilled products to major retail and foodservice customers in Australia and New Zealand. The Simplot Global Food business includes 17 food manufacturing and processing sites, serving retail and foodservice customers in 37 countries, with 8,000 people across North America, Latin America and Asia Pacific. Globally, the J.R. Simplot Company employs 15,000 people, driving innovation and excellence across diverse industries.


Within the Australian market, we are a leading provider of quality, nourishing and sustainable food, focussed on creating meals that maximises value from the best Australian-grown produce and global seafood. Our iconic brands have been an integral part of Aussie life for generations, and include Leggo's, Birds Eye, Edgell, John West and Chiko.

Culture & Benefits

 

At Simplot, we are fuelled by our purpose: We Contribute to Feeding Our World. We imagine a better future and set goals to reach it. We are committed to working as one Simplot and are guided by our shared values: 

  • Respect for Resources
  • Spirit of Innovation
  • Passion for People

We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. We care about creating an environment that promotes safety and wellbeing and where our people feel supported, respected and empowered. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all our team members.

Simplot is passionate about cultivating a future where good ideas and inspiring possibilities have the chance to grow. We want our team members to build exciting and fulfilling careers with us and offer professional and personal growth opportunities.

The Perks

 

  • Flexible working arrangements and a variety of engaging Health and Wellbeing programs
  • Diverse Leadership Development Programs and Professional Development Support
  • Employee Reward and Recognition Program
  • Bonus incentives and discounted Health Insurance
  • Sensory Club Program – Enjoy and taste our new product launches and access to our Culinary cooking sessions
  • Novated Car Leasing Agreements
  • Income Protection Insurance
  • Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave 

 

Simplot values the creativity and meaningful relationships that grow through face-to-face connection while also recognising the importance of flexibility for our team members. Our hybrid work environment includes four days in the office, with Wednesdays as our dedicated ‘Connect Day' bringing everyone together to strengthen our successful culture of innovation and collaboration.

About our role

 

An exciting opportunity currently exists for a Project Manager – New Product Introduction (NPI), based at our Chifley Park office in Mentone. This role is responsible for bringing new food innovations to life across the APAC region. Reporting to our Senior Manager, Enterprise PMO APAC, this role will lead cross-functional teams to deliver new product initiatives across categories including potato, vegetable, sauces, and seafood.


This role will see you manage a portfolio of up to 20 concurrent projects, coordinating with Marketing, Sales, R&D, Supply Chain, and more to ensure every product launch is delivered on time, within scope, and to the highest standards. 

What you will do

 

  • Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams through the full NPI lifecycle—from concept to shelf.
  • Build and manage detailed project timelines, ensuring alignment across all stakeholders.
  • Facilitate Stage Gate processes, risk assessments, and project reviews.
  • Coordinate with demand, supply, procurement, and production teams to meet launch deadlines.
  • Own and maintain project documentation, cost tracking, and system updates
  • Run effective project meetings, including launch meetings and Post Launch Reviews
  • Communicate clearly and confidently with senior leaders and gatekeepers.
  • Troubleshoot roadblocks, manage risks, and ensure project milestones are met.
 

About you

 

  • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in project management, ideally within FMCG or food manufacturing environments.
  • Strong understanding of New Product Introduction (NPI) or New Product Development (NPD) processes.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects under tight deadlines.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work across all levels of the business.
  • Highly organised and detail-oriented, with strong multitasking capabilities.
  • Bachelor’s degree or Project Management qualifications are highly regarded.
  • Proficiency in MS Project or similar tools; familiarity with Accolade is a plus.
  • Background in PMO, Marketing, Product Development, or Food Technology

 

If this sounds like you, then please apply online now. 

 

Applications close Friday 15th August. Simplot reserves the right to commence recruiting activity prior to closing date.  

 

#LI-AP1

#Li-Hybrid

Job Requisition ID: 22843 

Travel Required: None 

Location(s): GF Chifley Business Park Office - Melbourne 

Country: Australia 

 

Simplot is an equal opportunity employer and encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. If you feel you would be a great addition to our team please apply online today, we would love to hear from you. If you require technical assistance, please email us at careers.contact@simplot.com