Packaging jobs in United Kingdom

Job Title: Product Development Chef
Reports To: Head of Food Innovation and Development

Role Overview:
As a Product Development Chef, you will lead the development of innovative Food on the Move products in line with company strategy. You will transform product briefs into viable, high-quality products, ensuring timely delivery within cost targets, while keeping the development team fully informed on all projects. The Product Development Chef will play a key role in driving creativity, quality, and operational excellence throughout the product development process.

• Translate product briefs into viable products, considering ingredient quality, cost, and production constraints.

• Initiate and manage New Product Development (NPD) projects, transforming food concepts into market-ready products.

• Conduct concept snapshots to engage the team early and identify potential challenges.

• Follow the NPD stage-gate process, collaborating closely with the wider development team.

• Create and oversee initial product costs.

• Prepare and dispatch product samples to customers with all relevant documentation.

• Train production staff on product mixes to ensure consistency and quality throughout the production chain.

• Participate in production trials for sign-off on mixes and product assembly.

• Source high-quality, innovative ingredients and packaging to enhance product appeal and consumer experience.

• Lead customer presentations, representing the company at events, trade shows, and account visits.

• Monitor market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor activity to inform innovation strategies.

• Manage the day-to-day activities of the development kitchen and the development team.

• Passion for food with a strong understanding of consumer and market trends.

• Proven experience in product development, translating briefs, and delivering quality outcomes within budget.

• Well-established network of industry contacts for project support.

• Problem-solving mindset with resilience and emotional intelligence.

• Strong communication, presentation, and team leadership skills.

• Ability to analyze data and translate insights into actionable product concepts.

• Computer literate (MS Office, PowerPoint, Intact or equivalent software).

• Competitive salary

• Discounted food

• Free on-site parking

• Cycle to work scheme

• Staff events

• Tech scheme

• Training, development, and career progression