Senior NPD Technologist
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We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior NPD Technologist to join our team at Florette in Lichfield, WS13 8NF. This role will lead product development for new and modified products for the Florette brand and support own label, retail, and catering projects for major supermarkets and household name retailers. It is ideal for an experienced NPD Technologist seeking a varied, end-to-end, and quality-focused role.
The Senior NPD Technologist, reporting to the Head of Florette NPD, will lead NPD projects for both the Florette brand and own-label products from our Lichfield Head Office and factory. Responsibilities include managing NPD activities from research to post-launch reviews, with experience in chilled and/or short shelf life food products, shelf life analysis, product sampling, factory trials, and product costings. The candidate should have leadership qualities, experience presenting to customers, and working directly in an NPD environment.
Working hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30 am - 5:00 pm
Pay: Competitive, with annual bonus
Main Responsibilities
1. Manage product development projects, including trials, shelf life, samples, and validations.
2. Lead new product development from concept to launch.
3. Manage the Florette brand and own-label projects following marketing briefs.
4. Collaborate with customers on ideation and presentations.
5. Liaise with factory departments for project development.
6. Monitor products post-launch following review procedures.
7. Lead the NPD team in managers' absence when required.
Skills and Experience Required
* Degree in Food Science/Technology or related field.
* Proven experience in NPD, especially chilled/short shelf life products, shelf life analysis, sampling, factory trials, and costings.
* Confident and knowledgeable in customer presentations.
* Experience from concept to launch, preferably in FMCG or fresh produce environments.
* Quick learner, eager to develop expertise in salad products.
* Assertive, problem solver, decision maker, and effective communicator.
* Creative, innovative, and passionate about food.
What You Will Get in Return
A competitive salary with an annual bonus scheme and employee benefits, including life assurance, employee assistance programs, 33 days of annual leave (including UK bank holidays), training, employee discount platform, recognition awards, engagement days, incentives, volunteering days, and staff transport services.
About Us
Florette is part of Agrial Fresh Produce, a UK-based food manufacturing company within the larger French co-operative group, Agrial. We produce and distribute pre-packed salads to supermarkets, restaurants, and fast food vendors, processing around 600,000 kg weekly. Agrial operates across 18 regions with diverse divisions, including beverage, dairy, meat, and fresh produce.
Next Steps
We are excited to find new team members to innovate with us! If you have the relevant skills and experience and seek a new challenge, apply now or contact Will Kaye, Recruitment Officer, for a confidential discussion.
Please note, Agrial Fresh Produce reserves the right to close this vacancy early once sufficient applications are received. Early applications are encouraged.
VISA Sponsorship: We cannot employ individuals without the legal right to work in the UK.
We are an Equal Opportunities employer committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing among our staff, encouraging applications from those with experience of poor mental health, and fostering an open and supportive work environment.
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