Hain Celestial is recruiting a Senior Product Developer to join our Histon, Cambridgeshire site. The role involves supporting the NPD (New Product Development) Manager to deliver products that meet quality, safety, and margin expectations. The individual will manage projects throughout the NPD process, from concept development to product launch, ensuring adherence to procedures, managing cross-functional relationships, and troubleshooting issues as they arise.
Roles and Responsibilities:
1. Project Management (20%)
o Manage customer/brand briefs as directed by the NPD Manager.
o Ensure projects start with a clear brief.
o Ensure adherence to all NPD procedures and complete paperwork on time.
o Develop strong cross-functional relationships and communicate effectively to keep projects on track.
o Organize and facilitate project meetings.
o Escalate concerns if project briefs are at risk.
o Troubleshoot and problem-solve to keep projects on schedule.
2. Concept Development (25%)
o Follow feasibility and NPD processes.
o Ensure accurate product costing and track costs throughout development.
o Submit complete and accurate paperwork to internal and external stakeholders.
o Support brand sell-ins and manage internal stakeholder panels.
o Develop branded products in line with brand standards and own-label products to customer standards.
o Ensure all products are tasted and approved before dispatch.
o Work with procurement to ensure suitability of new raw materials and packaging.
o Develop new concepts aligned with factory processes and briefs.
o Conduct benchmarking as per customer and brand expectations.
3. Process Development (25%)
o Run Product Process Reviews (PPRs).
o Ensure product files are complete, accurate, and timely.
o Ensure compliance with BRC requirements and readiness for audits.
o Share accurate data with technical and key departments, including shelf life, nutritional info, and artwork.
o Promote continuous improvement culture to enhance processes and efficiency.
o Review packaging and processes to encourage innovation.
o Attend relevant conferences and share insights with the team.
o Coordinate or conduct post-trial tasks for product confirmation.
o Support product photography sessions as needed.
o Set up new products in recipe and equipment software systems.
o Support PPRs and product launches ensuring customer approval.
4. Customer Relationship & Management (20%)
o Act as the NPD point of contact for customers/brands.
o Communicate effectively throughout development to maintain customer confidence.
o Develop and maintain key relationships between Hain Daniels and customers, in coordination with the Product Developer/Technologist.
o Work with Technical and Sales teams for a consistent customer approach.
o Stay updated on customer expectations and brief teams accordingly.
5. Teamwork (10%)
o Deputize for the NPD Manager when needed.
o Manage the placement student (site-specific).
o Track department spend to meet budget targets.
o Support team members and represent RDQ within the business.
o Maintain effective communication for cross-functional collaboration.
o Ensure a clean and hygienic workspace.
What you will need for the role:
* Food-related degree and basic culinary skills
* 2-3 years of product development experience with project management skills
* Proven track record of timely development and delivery of commercially viable products
* Basic financial understanding
* Good communication and organizational skills
* Ability to work cross-functionally at all levels
What we offer:
* Competitive salary/rate of pay
* 25 days annual leave plus 8 Bank Holidays
* Option to purchase additional leave
* A day off to support charity partners
* Flexible working options
* Pension, medical benefits, and access to discounts
About The Hain Celestial Group
Hain Celestial is a leading health and wellness company inspiring healthier living through better-for-you brands, operating in over 75 countries. Our portfolio includes brands like Garden Veggie snacks, Terra chips, Ella’s Kitchen, and more.
Hain Daniels Group
In the UK, we create natural food and drink products, including jams, peanut butters, soups, and meat-free foods, employing around 1,200 people across various roles.
Our Values
* Own It: Empowered and accountable for improving results.
* Win Together: Collaborate for success.
* Foster Inclusion: Create a respectful environment.
* Be Curious: Explore ideas with a growth mindset.
Our Purpose & Mission
To inspire healthier living through better-for-you brands and build purpose-driven brands that make healthy living accessible.
If reasonable adjustments are needed for the recruitment process, please let us know. We look forward to hearing from you if you’re excited to join us on this journey.
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