Job Description Job Title: Innovation NPD Assistant Location: County Down, Northern Ireland Reports to: Head of Innovation Job Summary: An exciting opportunity has arisen for a motivated and detail-oriented Innovation NPD Assistant to join a fast-growing and dynamic Innovation team. In this role, you will support the development, testing, and launch of innovative products. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including technical, commercial, and operations, to ensure that new products align with quality standards, customer expectations, and emerging market trends. Key Responsibilities: Support the development of new products, assisting with everything from concept through to product launch. Assist in preparing and executing product trials and sensory evaluations to gather valuable feedback. Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify new trends and business opportunities in the industry. Help create and maintain detailed product specifications, recipes, and formulations. Organize and support product testing, gathering feedback from both internal teams and consumers. Work closely with the operations team to ensure products are scalable for mass production. Maintain clear and consistent communication with internal teams and manage project trackers effectively. Ensure that all product developments meet food safety regulations and quality standards. Keep organized records of ingredients, formulations, and testing results to support future reference. Assist in managing timelines and ensuring that product development projects are completed on schedule. Collaborate with packaging and marketing teams to ensure product presentation aligns with customer expectations. Qualifications: A degree or qualification in Food Science or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, relevant practical experience will be considered. Previous experience in a product development role is beneficial. A strong passion for food innovation. Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines. High attention to detail and a focus on delivering quality products. Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively within a team. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Teams, Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Knowledge of food safety standards and regulations. Desirable Skills: Familiarity with ingredient functionality and food formulations. Experience with product development software or databases. Awareness of current trends in the bakery industry. What We Offer: Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunity to work in a fast-paced and innovative environment. Career development and ongoing training opportunities. A collaborative and supportive team culture.