Product Developer - Chilled Food

The Product Team at The Newt in Somerset; Galhampton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury country estate in the UK is seeking an experienced Product Developer for Chilled Food to create exceptional premium products from concept to launch. Ideal candidates will have over 5 years of relevant experience, a strong background in ready meals, and excellent negotiation skills. This role offers a vibrant workplace with numerous employee benefits including gym access, wellness perks, and recognition programs.

Benefits

Use of gym and wellbeing classes

50% off Spa Treatments

30% discount in shops

Complimentary meal while on shift

Up to 30 days annual leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in chilled food product development.
• Strong background in pre-prepared/ready meals NPD.
• Proven experience from concept through delivery.

Responsibilities

• Develop new products and refine existing ones.
• Manage the full NPD process including viability and commercials.
• Lead taste panels and market benchmarking.

Skills

Chilled food product development

Commercial negotiation

Supplier management

Food presentation

Organizational skills

Results-driven mindset

Entrepreneurial mindset

Job description

Product Developer - Chilled Food

£45,000-£50,000 per annum plus performance bonus and fantastic benefits

Due to the location of the Estate, a driving license is recommended for this role.

Take a look at our website

Read the full job description

Our Product Developer – Chilled Food

Do you have a passion for creating exceptional chilled food products? At The Newt in Somerset, we’re looking for an experienced and commercially savvy Product Developer to shape our premium chilled food ranges — from pre-prepared meals to bakery, creamery, and butchery delights. You’ll take ideas from concept to launch, ensuring every product reflects our brand values, quality standards, and delivers a stand-out experience for our customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop exciting new products and refine existing ones across multiple chilled categories
• Manage the full NPD process including viability, critical path, and commercials
• Lead taste panels, market benchmarking, and competitor analysis to keep us ahead of trends
• Source and negotiate with suppliers — with a focus on local and sustainable partners
• Oversee packaging briefs, ensuring durability, compliance, and visual appeal
• Work with marketing on seasonal launches, campaigns, and promotions
• Provide product training for hospitality, retail, and customer service teams

What we can offer

• A positive workplace environment with opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
• Stay in shape with complimentary use of our gym and wellbeing classes
• Look after your wellbeing with complimentary access to our Spa and swimming pools and our exclusive benefit of 50% off Spa Treatments.
• Enjoy shopping in both our shops on the estate and online with 30% discount for all our colleagues and free delivery for any online purchases.
• Discover exclusive perks with our discounted hotel stays for staff, accompanied by a fantastic 30% discount at our restaurants.
• Complimentary garden membership for The Newt and our partner gardens including the Eden Project, Kew Gardens and The Lost Gardens of Heligan
• Complimentary meal whilst on shift, created using fresh produce from our estate by our dedicated staff food chefs
• We value your hard work and recognise your achievements through our colleague recognition programme “Newt Awards” with the opportunity to achieve a variety of amazing rewards including a complimentary Hotel Stay.
• Support from our Employee Assistance Programme for both yourself and your family
• A team that knows how to have fun with monthly team activities and Estate-wide team events
• Access your earnings at anytime with Wagestream, with access to nationwide brand discounts
• Up to 30 days annual leave each year for our full-time team

What we’re looking for

• Minimum 5 years’ chilled food product development experience in a major or premium setting
• Strong background in pre-prepared/ready meals NPD
• Proven experience of product development, from concept through to delivery
• Proven commercial negotiation and supplier management skills
• Creative flair with an eye for food presentation and branding
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and results-driven
• An entrepreneurial mindset with a love for premium food and customer experience

Where you’ll be working

The Product Team is responsible for curating and developing the food and drink ranges available across The Newt’s retail, hospitality, and online channels. We work closely with suppliers, marketing, operations, and customer-facing teams to deliver exceptional quality products that reflect the brand’s values, heritage, and innovation.

Who are we – The Newt in Somerset

Nestled within an expanse of rolling fields and steeped in ancient history, our luxury country estate stands as a haven of refined elegance, inviting guests to explore acres of captivating gardens, meandering pathways, and enriching exhibitions – accessible 364 days a year for our members. Our hotel extends a warm welcome, offering a home-away-from-home experience where impeccable service flourishes in an ambiance of unassuming sophistication. Beyond the estate, the Newt's essence remains tangible, with our Ecommerce teams delivering our finest products to homes, while media and membership endeavours keep them informed of our latest developments. Behind the scenes, a tapestry of talented teams – from Housekeeping to HR, Finance to Farming – collaborates harmoniously, crafting an unforgettable journey of growth, development, and innovation, where every contribution creates unparalleled experiences.

INDAVR