Consumer Insights Sensory Specialist

Manpower are currently seeking an interim Consumer Insights Sensory Specialist to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast‑paced FMCG environment.

Position is based at our client's scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral, easily accessible by train and car. This is a full‑time temporary role to run for 10 months, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation is competitive, paying up to £42,268 per annum pro rata, depending upon experience.

Designing and delivering end‑to‑end sensory and consumer research to support Homecare product innovation and product superiority program. Partnering closely with CI and R&D teams to translate sensory data into actionable insights and build new sensory methods to meet evolving business needs.

• Design and deliver research studies aligned to project needs, working with internal and external partners to execute quantitative, qualitative, and sensory research.
• Collaborate closely with CI and R&D teams to understand project objectives and coordinate sensory and consumer testing plans.
• Manage Homecare sensory panel operations, including protocol development, panel training, and data quality assurance.
• Utilise sensory tools and software to ensure accurate data collection, and translate results into clear, actionable insights.
• Contribute to claims development and product storytelling, grounded in sensory and consumer understanding.
• Brief and manage external agencies, ensuring effective coordination from study design through to final reporting.
• Ensure all activities comply with ethics, hygiene, safety, and product handling standards.
• Drive continuous improvement of sensory capabilities, tools, and methodologies by identifying and integrating innovative approaches, including AI and new research technologies.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Sensory Science, Food Science, Psychology, Statistics)
• Strong knowledge of consumer research and sensory methods
• Proven ability to plan and manage own work within a technical area
• Ability to manage and communicate with stakeholders, including those from non-technical backgrounds
• Experimental design, familiarity with statistical tools, statistical data analysis and interpretation of results
• Ability to interpret data from multiple sources to identify relevant insights
• Ability to communicate consumer insights to a variety of audiences
• Problem‑solving skills with practical creativity
• Ability to work with multi‑functional teams
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Good organisation and time‑management

• Free onsite parking
• Staff shop discounted products
• Working in state‑of‑the‑art laboratory and pilot plant facilities
• 5‑minute walk to train station serving Liverpool & Chester
• 20‑minute drive from Liverpool city centre / 30‑minute drive from Chester
• Disabled parking
• In the heart of picturesque Port Sunlight village
• Site clubs available covering a range of topics including Book Club, Running, Choir, Pool, Genealogy, and more
• Three catering outlets provide a range of hot and cold food and drinks daily
• Vending machines and cold water dispensers available around the site throughout the day