Job Title: Product Development Chef
Reports To: Head of Food Innovation and Development
Role Overview:
As a Product Development Chef, you will lead the development of innovative Food on the Move products in line with company strategy. You will transform product briefs into viable, high-quality products, ensuring timely delivery within cost targets, while keeping the development team fully informed on all projects. The Product Development Chef will play a key role in driving creativity, quality, and operational excellence throughout the product development process.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
* Translate product briefs into viable products, considering ingredient quality, cost, and production constraints.
* Initiate and manage New Product Development (NPD) projects, transforming food concepts into market-ready products.
* Conduct concept snapshots to engage the team early and identify potential challenges.
* Follow the NPD stage-gate process, collaborating closely with the wider development team.
* Create and oversee initial product costs.
* Prepare and dispatch product samples to customers with all relevant documentation.
* Train production staff on product mixes to ensure consistency and quality throughout the production chain.
* Participate in production trials for sign-off on mixes and product assembly.
* Source high-quality, innovative ingredients and packaging to enhance product appeal and consumer experience.
* Lead customer presentations, representing the company at events, trade shows, and account visits.
* Monitor market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor activity to inform innovation strategies.
* Manage the day-to-day activities of the development kitchen and the development team.
Desired Skills and Competencies:
* Passion for food with a strong understanding of consumer and market trends.
* Proven experience in product development, translating briefs, and delivering quality outcomes within budget.
* Well-established network of industry contacts for project support.
* Problem-solving mindset with resilience and emotional intelligence.
* Strong communication, presentation, and team leadership skills.
* Ability to analyze data and translate insights into actionable product concepts.
* Computer literate (MS Office, PowerPoint, Intact or equivalent software).
Discounted food
Free on-site parking
Cycle to work scheme
Staff events
Training, development, and career progression
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