Sensory And Consumer Science Specialist

Henderson Brown Recruitment; Little Stukeley; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is looking for a Packaging Innovation Specialist in Cambridgeshire. This hybrid role involves designing and leading sensory evaluation programmes in the food industry, translating data into actionable insights. Ideal candidates will have over 7 years of relevant experience and a strong academic background. Join a pioneering Innovation Centre and contribute to product development in a company focused on quality and sustainability.

Qualifications

• 7+ years' experience in sensory evaluation, consumer insight, or product testing within the food or beverage industry.
• Strong knowledge of sensory methodologies, DOE, and statistical interpretation of sensory data.
• Proven experience managing sensory programmes and trained panels.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead sensory evaluation programmes for defined food categories.
• Define and execute Design of Experiments (DOE) for sensory and organoleptic testing.
• Monitor global trends and technologies impacting sensory science.

Skills

Sensory evaluation

Consumer insight

Product testing

Statistical analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Sensory Science, Food Science, Psychology, or a related field

Job description

Packaging Innovation Specialist

Location & Setup: Cambridgeshire - Hybrid, 1 day onsite per week

Package: circa £45,000 - £55,000

The Opportunity

We're partnering with a global leader in the food industry, to appoint a brand new position - Sensory Consumer Science Specialist. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future in food at a state-of-the-art Innovation Centre launching in 2026.

You'll lead programmes to evaluate sensory profiles and understand consumer preferences, translating complex data into actionable insights that drive product development, enhance quality, and ensure alignment with consumer tastes. This role is perfect for someone passionate about the intersection of sensory science, consumer insight, and innovation, who thrives on collaboration and influencing decisions across a global business.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and lead sensory evaluation programmes for defined food categories, using both consumer and trained taste panels.
• Define and execute Design of Experiments (DOE) for sensory and organoleptic testing.
• Develop and manage internal and external sensory panels, including training, calibration, and ongoing management.
• Monitor global trends, technologies, and regulatory changes impacting sensory science and consumer preferences.
• Translate sensory and consumer data into clear, actionable insights to guide product development and business strategy.
• Embed consumer-centric decision-making throughout the product design and innovation process.
• Ensure adherence to Food Safety, Quality, Integrity, and Ethical Standards.

What We're Looking For

• 7+ years' experience in sensory evaluation, consumer insight, or product testing within the food or beverage industry.
• Strong knowledge of sensory methodologies, DOE, and statistical interpretation of sensory data.
• Proven experience managing sensory programmes and trained panels.
• Ability to translate complex data into clear, business-relevant recommendations.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Sensory Science, Food Science, Psychology, or a related field.
• Collaborative team player who can work independently and influence cross-functional teams.

The role may involve occasional travel, so a valid passport, clean driving licence, and access to reliable transport are desirable.

Why Join?

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a pioneering Innovation Centre within a world-leading food business. You'll work at the cutting edge of sensory and consumer science, shape the next generation of products, and contribute to a business that values quality, sustainability, and the consumer experience