The Company
This leading food manufacturer has a reputation for delivering exceptional products that delight customers and consumers alike. Known for their innovation and commitment to quality, they continue to grow and expand within the ambient market. To further enhance their New Product Development team, they are seeking a Senior NPD Technologist to join them in a key customer-facing role.
Please note that this role is site-based and requires a full UK driving license.
The Role
As a Senior NPD Technologist, you will play a pivotal role in managing a customer retail account and overseeing both NPD and EPD projects from concept to launch. You’ll be the main point of contact for key retailers, ensuring that all customer critical paths for project briefs are followed meticulously, and products are launched on time.
Working within tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment, you will champion the recipe creation process and manage all associated documentation throughout the entire concept-to-launch journey. You’ll be responsible for sourcing new ingredients, ensuring they are fit for purpose, meeting customer and site requirements, and adhering to cost constraints. Throughout the process, you will liaise with internal departments such as Production, Purchasing, Technical, and Supply Chain to ensure that all requirements are met and all tasks are completed efficiently.
Additionally, you’ll support the team with tasks such as organoleptic testing, micro reviews, and the organisation of trials. You’ll ensure all raw materials are ordered in advance and will work closely with the Process Technologist to oversee trials and pre-production meetings. On top of that, you’ll be involved in innovation days, quality panels, and competitor benchmarking sessions to ensure that the company’s products are always at the cutting edge.
The Person
You'll have a strong background in NPD within a food manufacturing environment. You will be educated to degree level and have a solid understanding of ingredient functionality, HACCP principles, and food hygiene qualifications. You should be proficient in all aspects of Microsoft Office and have experience working with retailer Codes of Practice and Policies, particularly with major retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Aldi.
In this role, strong communication skills are essential, both written and verbal, as you will be dealing directly with customers and collaborating with internal teams. You’ll need to be highly organised with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring all deadlines are met. Your ability to work flexibly and support your team will be crucial, as you’ll be expected to step up and assist with various tasks when required.
If you’re an experienced NPD Technologist with a passion for innovation and a proactive approach, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or get in touch for further details.
Ref: L6861
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Although we do our utmost to respond to all applicants, there are times when this is just not possible due to sheer volume so if you have not heard from us within 5 working days then we are sorry to say your application for this role has not been successful. If you would like to discuss any accessibility requirements for the recruitment process or the role, please feel free to contact us.
Also, please note that we are only able to accept and respond to applications from candidates with eligibility to work in the UK and those who hold valid work visas