Senior Product Developer

JR United Kingdom; Belfast; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

Role: Senior Product Developer

Location: Belfast

Reporting to: Managing Director

Interview Process: 2-stage interviews with a presentation required

Overview:

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established and highly respected family-run food manufacturer based in Belfast. Known for its quality, heritage, and values-led approach, the business is entering an exciting new phase of growth and innovation. Driving strategy and operational excellence, they are strengthening their innovation pipeline and expanding brand presence across retail and foodservice.

As Senior Product Developer, you’ll lead the creation of exciting, commercially viable food concepts that align with evolving consumer needs and help future-proof the brand.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead concept creation and product development – 50% blue-sky innovation, 50% ready-to-market
• Collaborate with NPD, Technical, Commercial and Senior Leadership teams to deliver best-in-class products
• Present confidently to retail and foodservice customers, showcasing innovation and technical insight
• Work alongside the Commercial Director to support the brand and communications strategy
• Develop products across the ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook categories, with full ownership of the development lifecycle
• Ensure all innovation is results-driven and aligned with the company’s high standards and values

What They're Looking For:

• An experienced, customer-facing Senior Product Developer with a strong track record in food innovation
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Background in branded and/or own-label food development, ideally in chilled, ambient or ready-to-eat
• A collaborative, proactive mindset with a passion for product
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, evolving business environment
• Willing to relocate to Belfast if not already local

Why Join?

• Join a long-standing, successful family business with a reputation for quality and integrity
• Work closely with an experienced senior leadership team to shape future strategy
• Be part of a values-driven culture that champions collaboration, achievement, and long-term thinking
• High visibility and impact – your work will directly influence brand direction and category success
• New investment and structure in place to set the team up for success