To work cross functionally with project managing the NPD process to deliver EPD and NPD to exceed both internal customers and external customers expectation. Interface with customers (internal & external) to take products through concept to launch ensuring compliance with policies and procedures throughout stage gate process.
What you will contribute
* Maintain the NPD process and documentation for both brand and non brand. Lead and support all projects
* Support the team – be a true foody – aware of trends from insight and competitors and be commercially aware around influences in market beyond just the bakery category
* Carryout concept development for both EPD and true NPD projects – support the longer term innovation pipeline programme
* Nurture strong customer relationships understanding the end user/consumer to ensure pro-active NPD/EPD programmes to deliver the Channel & Customer Strategy – visit customers as required
* Work closely with the costing process to ensure new products meet both customer and internal targets
* Work alongside strategic supplier’s resources to support NPD projects and act as specialist knowledge resource to support the team
* Lead and Manage product trials
* Follow the Product Development procedure and remain compliant with both BRC and Customer specific policies at all times – work closely with Technical colleagues around allergens/HACCP
* Provide trouble shooting support to the Operations including assistance with harvest transition, cost engineering projects
What you will bring
* Food science Degree or equivalent in technical discipline
* Development Technologist experience > 5 years
* Good level of technical expertise in food processes – essential bread industry experience, good understanding of manufacturing processes & confidence when working on plant and equipment
* Good level of knowledge of the product development cycle, including all aspects of QMS internal procedure and experience of Top 4 retailer NPD systems/processes
* Awareness of Food Labelling, Product Specifications, Nutritional information, Raw material specifications and packaging
* Project Management skills across multi-disciplinary teams including Risk analysis/mitigation, ability to coordinate to achieve critical path deadlines competently
* Awareness of external developments in Food Science, Technology, Sensory Science, Legislation related to food/materials
* Collaborative work style, team player and good attention to detail. Completer finisher ensuring all elements of a project are completed
* Good communication and interpersonal skills. Flexible and agile in approach
* A willingness to lead with the ability to influence peers and at level above