To work cross functionally with project managing the NPD process to deliver EPD and NPD to exceed both internal customers and external customers expectation. Interface with customers (internal & external) to take products through concept to launch ensuring compliance with policies and procedures throughout stage gate process.

What you will contribute

* Maintain the NPD process and documentation for both brand and non brand. Lead and support all projects

* Support the team - be a true foody - aware of trends from insight and competitors and be commercially aware around influences in market beyond just the bakery category

* Carryout concept development for both EPD and true NPD projects - support the longer term innovation pipeline programme

* Nurture strong customer relationships understanding the end user/consumer to ensure pro-active NPD/EPD programmes to deliver the Channel & Customer Strategy - visit customers as required

* Work closely with the costing process to ensure new products meet both customer and internal targets

* Work alongside strategic supplier's resources to support NPD projects and act as specialist knowledge resource to support the team

* Lead and Manage product trials

* Follow the Product Development procedure and remain compliant with both BRC and Customer specific policies at all times - work closely with Technical colleagues around allergens/HACCP

* Provide trouble shooting support to the Operations including assistance with harvest transition, cost engineering projects

What you will bring

* Food science Degree or equivalent in technical discipline

* Development Technologist experience > 5 years

* Good level of technical expertise in food processes - essential bread industry experience, good understanding of manufacturing processes & confidence when working on plant and equipment

* Good level of knowledge of the product development cycle, including all aspects of QMS internal procedure and experience of Top 4 retailer NPD systems/processes

* Awareness of Food Labelling, Product Specifications, Nutritional information, Raw material specifications and packaging

* Project Management skills across multi-disciplinary teams including Risk analysis/mitigation, ability to coordinate to achieve critical path deadlines competently

* Awareness of external developments in Food Science, Technology, Sensory Science, Legislation related to food/materials

* Collaborative work style, team player and good attention to detail. Completer finisher ensuring all elements of a project are completed

* Good communication and interpersonal skills. Flexible and agile in approach

* A willingness to lead with the ability to influence peers and at level above