R&D Chef

Drnewitt; Southall; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

A major UK food group is seeking an R&D Chef to take charge of recipe development from concept to launch. This hands-on role offers opportunities to make an impact in product innovation and work closely with various teams. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food, at least 3 years of experience, and be skilled in commercial thinking. This position is a great step for chefs looking for growth and stability beyond traditional kitchen roles.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience as a chef or equivalent food background.
• Confident with recipe costing and commercial thinking.
• Able to work cross-functionally and detail-driven.
• Organised, detail-driven, and comfortable working cross-functionally.
• Curious about trends and innovation, not stuck on the pass.

Responsibilities

• Develop recipes from concept to launch.
• Take ownership of end-to-end NPD processes.
• Collaborate with chefs, commercial teams, and customers.
• Exposure to food trends, innovation and large-scale manufacturing.
• Stable, well-invested business with clear growth plans.

Skills

Passion for food

Ingredient knowledge

Commercial thinking

Detail-oriented

Job description

Job Description

R&D CHEF | UK-WIDE FOOD GROUP

Hands-on chef ready to step into product development?

I’m recruiting an R&D Chef for a major UK food group with sites nationwide. This is a front-line, commercial role where you’ll take ideas from concept to launch — developing recipes that actually make it to market.

Why this role stands out

• End-to-end NPD ownership (recipes, costings, trials, launch)
• Real influence on products sold at scale
• Work closely with chefs, commercial, operations & customers
• Exposure to food trends, innovation and large-scale manufacturing
• Stable, well-invested business with clear growth plans

What they’re looking for

• Minimum 3 years’ experience as a Chef (or equivalent food background)
• Strong food passion + ingredient knowledge
• Confident with recipe costing & commercial thinking
• Organised, detail-driven, and comfortable working cross-functionally
• Curious about trends and innovation, not stuck on the pass

Location:

London

Career move:

Kitchen → NPD → long-term progression

If you’re a chef who wants impact, structure, and a future beyond service, this is worth a conversation.