NPD Technologist

We have a fantastic opportunity for a full time, permanent NPD Technologist.Purpose of the Role:To manage the development process from concept to launch. To develop products that are fit for purpose both in the factory and for the customer’s needs. To develop and maintain links with agreed external contacts, professional advisors and official bodies.Key responsibilities:Acting as a role model for all agreed people management practices, managing, guiding and coaching direct reports whilst demonstrating best practice at all timesBuilding effective relationships with all teams and participating in team meetingsWorking with other departments to deliver the customer briefsKeeping up to date with global trends, restaurants trends and retailers launchesPlanning inspiration trips targeted to deliver market leading development ideasEnsuring the smooth transition of new concepts and related processes through to manufactureEnsuring project files are completed detailing the project status from concept through to launch. Ensuring that all BRC and retailer requirements are documentedProviding appropriate recipe and product information, via Ework and Interspec to enable costings and customer specifications to be completedLiaising closely with Technical Services, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing, Purchasing and Engineering to launch products successfully and on timeSourcing of new raw materials in conjunction with purchasing and technical ensuring appropriate supplier approval, raw material specifications, and presence of any allergensCo-ordinate and prepare samples for submissions to the retailerLead product submission meetings at the retailer with the developer, buyer and technical teamsResponsible for co-ordinating factory trials, pre and post-trial meetings and final factory sign offCompletion of shelf life and nutritional analysis and organoleptic assessment over lifeGeneration of customer specific photographic quality standards (QAS) to include internal and customer sign offAttend photography shoots to ensure photographs are representativeCo-ordinating pre-production runs and product launches alongside ManufacturingCo-ordinate the post launch review meetings and facilitate production handover/sign offManage day to day activity relating to customers account(s)Skills and Experience required:Experience in an NPD role with previous customer interactionExperience in the chilled food sector preferable, especially contact with at least one of the top four retailersExperience of dealing with factory trials and pressurised launches in an efficient and professional mannerUp to date knowledge of the chilled food sector, food trends and retailEffective written and verbal communication and presentation skills – particularly negotiation and persuasion to land projects on time and in fullPersonally Effective – excellent organisational skills, ability to prioritise, excellent attention to detail, ensuring outputs are correct as critical to business runningAbility to seek out, manage and influence opportunities for continuous improvement and changeAbility to ensure that the highest standards of quality and customer care are achievedAbility to meet multiple deadlines.