As the Innovation & Production Expert in Kandikist, you will play a pivotal role in product development and product offerings of our company. You will be responsible for both the creative development of new food products and the execution of production operations. This multifaceted role requires a blend of practical culinary expertise, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial acumen.
Responsibilities
- Product Development:
- Lead the ideation, creation, and testing of innovative food products that align with our brand and target market.
- Lead the establishment of the company’s production facility, working with and incorporating input from cross-functional teams.
- Work together with other teams including marketing, sales, and operations to understand market trends, consumer preferences, and business goals.
- Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify opportunities for differentiation and innovation.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop recipes, formulations, and production processes that meet quality standards, cost targets, and regulatory requirements.
- Design processes to test foods for flavor, texture, smell, appearance, and more
- Find new ways to preserve food and improve the manufacturing process
- Do experiments on ingredients or products to test for safety and nutrition
- Figure out ways to improve products based on their nutrition, shelf life, or packaging
- Determine the nutritional value of products for packaging
- Organize sensory tests to get feedback on flavor and texture
- Regulatory Compliance:
- Stay updated on food safety regulations, industry standards, and certification requirements.
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations governing food production, labelling, and distribution.
Job Specification
Candidate requirements
- Having an interest in the chemistry of foods and the science of food preparation and its application to the food development process.
- The goal as an Innovation & Production expert is to make discoveries and investigations about food. Having a scientific or research-minded way of thinking is an important part of the job.
- When working with food, it’s often the little details like nuances in smell or taste that make a difference, so being observant with details is a must.
- Sometimes with food science, answers don’t always appear right away. It’s valuable to be the kind of person who will keep working towards a solution.
- Proven experience in food production leadership roles, preferably in a startup or fast-paced environment.
- Excellent knowledge of food safety standards, regulations, and best practices.
- Food-related certification is considered a plus.