Product Development Chef

TN United Kingdom; Grantham; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the food industry is seeking a Research & Development Chef to join their Grantham site. This role involves developing innovative recipes, managing product costings, and collaborating with various teams to ensure product viability. The ideal candidate will have a strong culinary background, excellent communication skills, and a passion for food innovation.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years’ experience as a Chef or in a similar food industry role.

Responsibilities

• Develop recipes and conduct cost analysis for specific projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to discuss new products.

Skills

Communication

Multitasking

Education

Relevant qualifications in the food industry

Job description

Job Title: Research & Development Chef

We have an exciting opportunity to join the Pilgrims Europe Product & Innovation team as a Research & Development Chef based at our Grantham site.

This role will work closely with the R&D Manager and Senior Chefs to nurture a food culture aligned with our goal to become a world-class food company. The successful candidate will bring new products to market, from initial concept to product launch, developing a portfolio of innovative recipes valued by our customers to support business growth and profitability.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop recipes, including cost analysis, using Recipe Professor for specific projects.
2. Support packaging development and costing in collaboration with the Central Innovation Manager.
3. Prepare product costings aligned with MSP targets, considering commercial and manufacturing implications.
4. Provide product samples for internal and external meetings.
5. Manage uploading of costing request forms to the Product Costing & Insight (PC&I) Portal.
6. Stay updated on food trends to influence future NPD and innovation projects.
7. Maintain the NPD kitchen to a Gold Standard and support digital COSHH management for chemicals.
8. Collaborate with cross-functional teams during development and early gate stages to discuss new products, raw materials, processing, and packaging.
9. Work closely with PC&I and Commercial teams to deliver commercially viable products and submit costing files at least 48 hours prior to deadlines.
10. Build relationships with retailers, ensuring customer care and alignment with Pilgrims Europe's Vision and Values.

Skills and Qualifications:

• At least 3 years’ experience as a Chef or in a similar food industry role.
• Supply chain experience, including sourcing ingredients and produce.
• Relevant qualifications or experience in the food industry.
• Valid full UK driving license.

This role is suitable for someone passionate about culinary arts, with relevant hospitality experience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to multitask effectively.