Job Title:
Food Innovation Chef
Location:
Newry
Salary:
£45,000
The Opportunity
An established food manufacturer is seeking a
Food Innovation Chef
to drive its
Food on the Move
product development strategy. Reporting to the Head of Food Innovation & Development, you'll lead the creation of new, market-relevant products from concept to launch-delivering on time, on budget, and to exceptional quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Product Development:
Translate product briefs into commercially viable recipes, balancing ingredient quality, cost, and production constraints.
* Innovation & Improvement:
Initiate new product (NPD) and existing product (EPD) projects, continually challenging and refining product quality.
* Collaboration:
Work closely with the wider NPD team through the stage-gate process, sharing concept snapshots early to pre-empt issues.
* Costing & Sampling:
Create initial costings and manage sample preparation and documentation for customer presentations.
* Training & Trials:
Train production staff to Quality Attribute Standards (QAS) and oversee production trials to sign off mixes and assembly.
* Ingredient & Packaging Sourcing:
Identify unique, high-quality ingredients and packaging solutions that elevate both product visuals and eating experience.
* Customer Engagement:
Present concepts to key accounts, represent the business at trade shows and customer visits, and ensure the on-site food truck showcases the brand at its best.
* Market Awareness:
Monitor consumer trends and emerging concepts to keep the product portfolio ahead of the curve.
* Team Leadership:
Manage the day-to-day operations of the development kitchen and guide the development team.
Desired Skills & Experience
* Strong passion for food and a keen eye on consumer and market trends.
* Proven track record in product development, from brief to launch, within budget.
* Well-connected within the food industry, with the ability to leverage networks for projects.
* Problem-solving mindset and "can-do" attitude.
* Excellent communication and presentation skills; confident in customer-facing situations.
* Analytical ability to turn data and insight into winning concepts.
* Proficiency with MS Office (including PowerPoint) and relevant development or costing software.