Job Purpose
To support the development teams with product development activities and fostering positive relationships with customers and internal stakeholders.
Key Duties, Responsibilities & Accountabilities
* Support the Development and Culinary teams in the creation and refinement of recipes in line with customer requirements and expectations
* Being actively involved in the kitchen with the creation of samples and food for key meetings
* Support in the organisation and set up of customer and internal presentations and events
* Co‑ordinate sample requests – obtaining samples, booking couriers, liaising with relevant parties to ensure timely delivery of samples
* Support product developers with completion of NPD documents, e.g. submission forms, feasibility and handover documents
* Support in the maintenance of Recipe Professor for the site
* Assist with the sourcing and viability of new raw materials from an operational, technical and product development perspective
* Follow the critical path timelines – escalating incomplete tasks and risks to prevent delays in product approval and launch
* Assist with customer specification information collection and approval of artwork
* Complete benchmarking documents, store visits, support panels to develop sound understanding of existing (EPD) and New Product Development (NPD)
* Support the site process team on trials, data collection and factory paperwork when required
* This role requires product tasting across multiple categories and may include meat‑based products
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
* Passion to start or continue a career in New Product Development
* Food based / Culinary qualification – desirable
* Keen interest in food
* Confident in the kitchen
* Positive, can‑do attitude
* Knowledge of product launch process – advantageous
* Excellent communication skills both verbal and written
* Good planning, organisation and project management skills
* Good analytical and numeracy skills
* Attention to detail
* Good level of computer literacy – Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Teams
* Understanding of UK and European food regulation and legislation
* Driving Licence
Benefits
* Salary Sacrifice Schemes – including Electric Vehicles, Home & Tech, Cycle to Work, and SMART Pension
* 33 days Annual Leave (including bank holidays) with the option to purchase extra
* Holiday Discounts via the online retail platform
* Access to enhanced retail discounts online and in‑store
* Free product handouts across sites, allowing sampling and enjoyment of products first hand
* EV charging points – available at selected sites
* 24/7 access to Grocery Aid for free financial, emotional, and practical support
* Physical Wellbeing Hub – free on‑demand exercise classes, gym discounts
* Free diet & nutrition advice with access to thousands of healthy recipes
* Online wellbeing support – from mindfulness to lifestyle resources
* Financial wellbeing tools – mortgage calculators, budgeting tools, and financial aid
* Access to a personalised online learning platform (LMS)
* Formal and informal training opportunities tailored to the role
* Performance Development Plans and regular Career Conversations
* Company Mentoring Scheme to deepen career journeys
* Recognition through Club Compleat rewards
* 2 paid volunteering days per year to give back to causes that matter
* Charity initiatives and fundraising events
* Team socials to connect and celebrate together
* Employee networks & support groups – including Women @ Compleat
* New baby gift for new parents
Location & Hours
Location: Middlesbrough, TS22 5TB
Hours: Monday – Thursday, 8:30am – 5pm and Friday, 8:30am – 4pm
Equal Opportunity
The Compleat Food Group fosters an inclusive, respectful culture where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. We welcome diverse talent, knowing it drives exceptional results and a better workplace. We are committed to Fairness, Equity, Inclusivity, and Respect, and ensure all colleagues can thrive by bringing their whole selves to work. As an equal opportunity employer, we provide all the support you need to succeed.
J-18808-Ljbffr