PURPOSE OF THE POST:
* To drive and deliver the concept development requirements of customers – to develop creative meal solutions which meet customer, consumer, and category objectives with regard for manufacturing core competencies, legislative requirements, critical paths and margin aspirations
* Drive continuous improvement by being attuned to ongoing developments with new raw materials and processes, competitor activity and market trends in associated categories
* Work with Concept Development and Chef teams to drive customer focused innovation pipelines
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES:
* To recruit, lead, motivate and manage direct reports to achieve agreed targets and objectives.
* Work closely with all functions to deliver focused development that achieves pre agreed gross margin and optimises existing capabilities and site capacity.
* Manage site customer feasibility meetings and close out of actions following before customer submission.
* Demonstrate interest, knowledge and expertise within the target cuisines and in food generally. Understand the wants and the needs of both internal and external customers.
* Develop customer category understanding and relevant consumer insight so we effectively deliver development to the correct target audience.
* Present professional presentations to customers both internal and external that succinctly portray detail around concepts, the rationale behind them and innovation plans to drive category growth
* Support the NPD Controller to plan, organise and control resources to deliver new product development concepts to agreed quality, cost and timescales.
* Develop and maintain good working relationships with other site NPD teams and functions. Gain an understanding of other site capabilities to support cross site development projects.
* Develop and maintain effective customer relationships at relevant levels.
* In conjunction with the NPD Controller/HOD manage off brief projects to scope & shape the medium to long term development plans utilising the Oscar Mayer innovation platform to create the customer innovation pipeline.
* Work in conjunction with the site Process Manager to oversee the successful handover of products from kitchen to factory.
CORE COMPETENCIES
(Essential Knowledge, Skills & Experience)
* Qualified to degree level or above in Food Science or a related subject
* Must have a minimum of 5 years' experience in manufacturing preferably
* Experience in working with/for Major retailers
* Strong and proven track record of NPD achievement at a relevant level
* Extensive food development and recipe knowledge
* Demonstrable experience of successfully working in and leading a team
* Strong financial and project management skill set
* Sound communication and negotiation skills teamed with professional gravitas
* A passion for all things food