Product Development Chef

Drnewitt; St Leonards; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global food manufacturer is looking for a creative Development Chef to innovate and bring new recipes to market. You'll research, design, and present new dish ideas while improving existing products. Ideal candidates should have proven experience in culinary innovation, a strong grasp of food trends, and formal culinary qualifications. This role requires excellent communication and organizational skills in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Development Chef or in a senior culinary innovation role.
• Strong understanding of current food trends, flavours, and presentation.
• Experience in recipe development and factory-based product launches.
• Sound knowledge of food safety, allergens, and nutrition regulations.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and test new recipes and product ranges.
• Refresh and improve existing products.
• Work cross-functionally to ensure product viability.
• Keep ahead of market trends to inform development.
• Present new concepts to customers and teams.
• Maintain accurate records throughout the development process.

Skills

Creativity

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Understanding of food trends

Recipe development

Education

Formal culinary qualifications (NVQ, City & Guilds, or equivalent)

Job description

Job Description

Are you a creative Development Chef who loves taking ideas from concept to plate and seeing them hit the market?

I'm working with a global food manufacturer producing premium, tailor‑made products for the foodservice sector. This is a hands‑on role for a chef with flair and commercial focus, eager to innovate within a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research, design, and test new recipes and product ranges that meet both customer briefs and factory capabilities
• Refresh and improve existing products to ensure best‑in‑class quality and value
• Work cross‑functionally to ensure new dishes are viable, compliant, and commercially successful
• Keep ahead of market trends and competitor activity to inform product development
• Present new concepts and finished dishes to customers and internal teams
• Maintain accurate records and documentation throughout the development process

About You:

• Proven experience as a Development Chef or in a senior culinary innovation role
• Strong understanding of current food trends, flavours, and presentation
• Experience in recipe development and factory‑based product launches
• A creative yet commercially aware mindset — able to balance flavour, cost, and scalability
• Excellent communication, organisation, and presentation skills
• Sound knowledge of food safety, allergens, and nutrition regulations
• Formal culinary qualifications (NVQ, City & Guilds, or equivalent)
• Full UK driving licence

Does this sound like it could be your next role?

Please reach out asap for more information!