So, what will I be doing?
At Yeo Valley, we’ve been making delicious, organic dairy products for over 50 years. As a family-run business, we believe in doing things the right way – sustainably, ethically, and with people at the heart of what we do.
Under the direction of the Innovation Manager, as Senior Innovation Technologist, you will support the launching & evaluating of new & existing products in categories such as yogurt, ice cream, desserts, savoury & fruit.
The role involves working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, high-quality product concepts. Main responsibilities include:
* Supporting the Innovation Manager in concept creation
* Enhancing raw material and packaging knowledge
* Gaining product formulation expertise across multiple categories
This role is crucial in shaping the future of the Yeo Valley Product Portfolio.
Key responsibilities:
* Coordinating, producing, and delivering kitchen samples
* Liaising with suppliers for new ingredients within set parameters
* Collaborating with Process Development teams on process improvements and EPD modifications
* Supporting customer engagement and presentations
* Conducting market reviews and benchmarking to identify trends and opportunities
* Securing stakeholder buy-in for new concepts and products to deliver "First to Market" innovations
* Assisting in project critical path generation and delivery to meet launch deadlines
* Maintaining accurate documentation related to innovation development
This is a full-time role (40 hours/week) based at our Blagdon HQ.
What do I need?
Essential:
* Experience in managing multiple product development projects with deadlines
* Ability to work well in a collaborative, cross-functional team
* Proactive problem-solving skills and hands-on troubleshooting
* Strong verbal and written communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
Qualifications:
* Food qualification or relevant experience in food manufacturing and Innovation
* Minimum 2 years post-graduate experience in a food process NPD role
Desirable Skills:
* Knowledge of relevant legislation, food industry standards, and HACCP
Personal Attributes:
* Attention to detail in product development and documentation
* Adaptability in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
* Resilience and a proactive, "can do" attitude
* Self-driven with a growth mindset and initiative
* Practical, hands-on approach
* Good IT skills (Microsoft and database systems)
Why join us?
We’re an independent, British company proud of making high-quality yogurts, desserts, and ice cream under the Yeo Valley brand, supplying major UK retailers. Operating from four dairies and two logistics centres in Somerset and Devon, we employ over 1700 staff and produce more than 25% of the UK’s packaged yogurt.
Benefits include:
* Competitive holiday allowance
* Non-contributory pension scheme
* Life insurance
* Healthcare cashback
* Cycle to work scheme
* Subsidised products and services
* Partner discounts
* Annual bonus (based on company performance)
* Learning and development opportunities
Application closing dates are guidelines; we recommend applying promptly. Note that we cannot provide sponsorship currently, and we only accept applications via our preferred recruitment portal from approved agencies.
#J-18808-Ljbffr