Senior Development Technologist

Sofina Foods Europe; Grimsby; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Sofina Foods Europe seeks an experienced NPD professional to manage product development from concept to launch for seafood and related categories. You will lead projects, coordinate with Operations, Technical, Commercial and Supply Chain teams, and build strong customer relationships to meet quality, cost and timeline targets.

The role combines creativity with technical know-how and requires travel and driving licence.

Qualifications

• Experience in retailer-focused food product development.
• Ability to manage projects from concept through launch in a fast-paced environment.
• Confident communicator able to present ideas to customers and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of end-to-end NPD processes including trials, launches and commercialization.
• Passionate about food, consumer trends and product innovation.
• Highly organised with ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Collaborative and proactive across functions and teams.
• Willingness to travel and hold a full driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple NPD and EPD projects, ensuring delivery to cost, quality and timeline targets.
• Develop, trial and launch new products from concept through development.
• Prepare product samples, presentations and costings for internal stakeholders and customers.
• Collaborate with Operations, Technical, Commercial and Supply Chain teams for successful delivery.
• Build strong customer relationships and respond to briefs and evolving requirements.
• Source ingredients and support cost control to meet budgets.
• Monitor market trends and consumer insights to drive innovation.
• Support governance and compliance within internal and customer NPD processes.
• Mentor junior colleagues and support the Senior NPD Manager when needed.

Job description

Shape the future of seafood innovation from concept to customer launch

Role Overview

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in bringing innovative, commercially successful products to market across Sofina Foods Europe, with a particular focus on our Seafood division. You'll manage product development projects from concept through to launch, working closely with customers and cross-functional teams to deliver products that meet quality, cost and commercial objectives. The role offers a blend of creativity, technical expertise and customer engagement in a fast-paced NPD environment.

Key Duties

You will:

• Manage multiple NPD and EPD projects, ensuring delivery to agreed cost, quality and timeline targets.
• Develop, trial and launch new products, taking concepts through the full development process.
• Prepare product samples, presentations and costings for internal stakeholders and customers.
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Technical, Commercial and Supply Chain teams to ensure successful delivery.
• Build strong customer relationships, responding to briefs and evolving requirements.
• Source ingredients and support cost control to meet budget expectations.
• Monitor market trends and consumer insights to drive innovation across seafood and wider categories.
• Support governance and compliance requirements within internal and customer NPD processes.
• Mentor junior colleagues and provide support to the Senior NPD Manager when required.

The Ideal Candidate

• An experienced NPD professional with a strong background in retailer-focused food product development.
• Comfortable managing projects from concept through to launch in a fast-paced environment.
• A confident communicator, able to present ideas and products to customers and internal stakeholders.
• Knowledgeable in end-to-end NPD processes, including trials, launches and commercialisation.
• Passionate about food, consumer trends and product innovation.
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Collaborative and proactive in working across different functions and teams.
• Able to travel as required and hold a full driving licence.

Why Join Us?

You'll have the opportunity to influence product strategy, shape innovative new launches and work closely with major retail customers. This role offers exposure to senior stakeholders, the chance to mentor others and the opportunity to develop your career within a leading European food business.

About Sofina

Sofina Foods is more than just a food company. It’s a place where you can grow your career, learn new skills, and make a positive impact.
With a wide range of meat and seafood products that delight consumers worldwide, Sofina Foods is always looking for talented and passionate people to join its team of over 13,000 employees across 40 sites in Canada and Europe.
At Sofina Foods, you will be part of a culture that values innovation, quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. You will work with diverse and delicious products that are sourced responsibly and sustainably from over 50 different protein sources from 5 continents.
Our vision is to be the most successful food company in the world. If you are looking for a rewarding and exciting career in the food sector, Sofina Foods is the place for you.

Equal Opportunities

Sofina Foods is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences – regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation