Food Development Manager - Food Retail Company - Up to 55k + Benefits - Mon - Fri - South London Areas
Role Overview:
My client is looking for a confident, commercially focused Product Development Manager with strong experience in food retail/hospitality background to join their team in South London. You will lead the development of innovative, high-quality sweet and savoury food products and menus, working exclusively with UK-based suppliers. This is an on-site role that requires cross-functional collaboration, supplier management, and regular UK travel.
You'll need to demonstrate a strong understanding of gross profit margins, product positioning, and market trends, and be comfortable presenting directly to directors and senior stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and deliver a pipeline of new food products and seasonal menus, across both sweet and savoury ranges .
Lead product development projects from concept through to launch, ensuring quality, brand alignment, and commercial success.
Work with only UK-based suppliers and manufacturers, building strong, effective relationships.
Ensure all new products meet commercial targets, including gross profit margin and customer appeal.
Manage the full menu and product development calendar, aligned to business objectives, seasons, and campaigns.
Create and manage detailed product specifications, including ingredient declarations, allergens, nutritional profiles, and packaging.
Ensure full compliance with UK food safety legislation, H&S ,labelling regulations, and internal quality standards.
Liaise directly with company directors, presenting concepts, margin performance, and development updates.
Conduct regular competitor reviews and food trend analysis to drive ongoing innovation.
Travel across the UK for supplier visits, product trials, tastings, and production support.
Person Specification:
Essential:
Solid experience in a similar food product development role within a retail or food manufacturing environment or restaurants
Strong understanding of product costing and gross profit margin management.
Understand all about different textures and flavours
Proven experience developing both sweet and savoury food products.
Confident dealing with directors, senior management, and cross-functional teams.
Skilled at managing UK-based suppliers and manufacturers.
Excellent knowledge of UK food safety laws, labelling requirements, and quality standards.
Comfortable managing multiple projects and working to tight timelines.
Willing to travel within the UK regularly as part of the role.
Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a passion for great food.
Desirable:
Culinary, Food Science, or Product Development qualifications.
Familiarity with sustainable sourcing, HFSS regulations, or allergen labelling best practices.
Previous experience in food categories such as chilled, bakery, desserts, or premium grocery.
Benefits:
Competitive salary + performance-related bonus
25 days holiday + bank holidays
Staff discount across all product ranges
On-site working with a close-knit and innovative team
Involvement in shaping the company's food offer and menu direction
Travel opportunities across the UK to visit trusted suppliers
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