Interim / Fractional Product Launch Project Manager (NPD Focus)
Rate: £350 - £400 per day
Start: ASAP
Location: Midlands (hybrid - mainly remote with occasional site visits)
Commitment: 2-3 days per week
We're partnering with an established and growing product-led business to support a pipeline of new product launches over the next 6 months.
They're looking for a hands-on Product Launch Project Manager who can bring structure, pace, and accountability to the end-to-end launch process - ensuring products are delivered to market on time and to a high standard.
This role would suit someone with strong experience in NPD (New Product Development), stage-gate processes, and cross-functional delivery.
The Role
You will take ownership of the full product launch lifecycle, driving delivery across multiple workstreams and stakeholders.
Key responsibilities include:
- Building and managing detailed launch plans, timelines, and Gantt charts
- Owning the stage-gate / governance process, ensuring clear milestones and sign-offs
- Coordinating cross-functional teams across:
- Product / Buying
- Brand & Marketing
- Design
- Supply Chain & Operations
- Driving accountability - chasing actions and ensuring deadlines are met
- Managing dependencies, risks, and bottlenecks across multiple launches
- Supporting product readiness, including:
- Product information and specifications
- Packaging and launch materials
- Alignment across teams prior to launch
- Creating clear reporting and KPI tracking post-launch
- Bringing structure and consistency to the overall launch process
What we're looking for
- Proven experience delivering end-to-end product launches (NPD)
- Strong understanding of stage-gate / gated governance processes
- Highly organised, with experience managing multiple concurrent launches
- Confident working across cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders
- Hands-on approach - comfortable getting into the detail and driving delivery
- Strong planning skills (Gantt, timelines, Smartsheet, MS Project or similar)
- Background in consumer products, retail, FMCG, or manufacturing
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