Job Purpose
* Responsible for the development of new and existing products
* Progressing multiple projects through the NPD system from brief to launch
* Drive continuous improvement by being attuned to ongoing developments with new raw materials and processes, competitor activity and market trends, in the associated categories.
* To monitor final product costs throughout the development process and advise of any deviation whilst agreeing corrective action as appropriate
Accountabilities
* Working with our Development Chefs to develop new concepts aligned to customer briefs and through blue sky developments, ensuring at all times that these meet customer and business requirements.
* A demonstrable understanding of business requirements in terms of margin and budgets alongside those of our customer
* Liaison with the buying team and suppliers to ensure that raw materials are ordered in a timely fashion for sample making and creative development as well as evaluating new raw materials.
* Presenting to customers both on and off site.
* Supporting in initial factory trials as appropriate and assisting the Process Technologist in the translation of kitchen methods and assembly into a suitable factory process (where applicable).
* Following product approval, ensure all relevant departments have the necessary information to complete the customer requirements for launch critical path.
* Collate information from all practical work interpreting and feeding back any relevant results to the Product Manager for possible product amendment or discussion with the customer.
* Working closely with the process development team to generate recipes that are fit for factory purpose.
* Provides a tangible input into the on-going improvement of product quality of existing dishes as part of the Development team.
* Has awareness of comparative products from all the major retailers and other food outlets and demonstrates this knowledge during product presentations internally and with the customer.
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
* NPD professional with a degree in Food Science or related discipline
* Must have a minimum of 2 years' experience in manufacturing preferably chilled.
* A strong understanding of new product development and manufacturing processes, and problem solving abilities, who can think outside the box whilst under pressure.
* Passionate foodie with an impressive working knowledge of the NPD processes
* Creative and confident in presenting new products
* Outgoing, passionate with a high degree or self-motivation
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
* Canteen
* Company pension
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person