Assistant NPD Manager

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).

Discounted food

Free on-site parking

Cycle to work scheme

Staff events

Training, development, and career progression