Lead Product Developer

Hampshire
/
£45,000.00 - £55,000.00
Joe Rees-Davies
Consultant – NPD & R&D

Are you ready to step into a leadership role as a Lead Product Developer with a well-known global business?

Located in the Hampshire area, this opportunity allows you to work within a strong, supportive team while managing two direct reports. You'll have ample opportunities for self-progression as you grow within the company. Plus, enjoy the flexibility of hybrid working, which will be introduced once you're settled into the role. If you're looking to advance your career in a dynamic environment, this could be the perfect fit for you.

You will be responsible for, but not limited to:

  • Responsible for identifying, driving, developing and delivering accurate NPD, EPD and ingredient led innovation for Europe.
  • Designing with customer focus and consumer insight to identify and develop the correct drinks portfolio for the European market, informing and setting the correct quality standard.
  • Responsible for following, establishing and improving best practice processes within product development and the team.
  • Within the European ingredient development team this role will act as a coach and support to Drinks Development Technologists in NPD and ingredient technical matters.
  • Works independently, pro-actively and with minimal operational support to lead projects within the business.
  • Identifies and manages key project stakeholders, understands project interdependencies of other functions and impact of R&D results to maintain project timelines.
  • Sourcing and selection of raw materials, supplier and specification management
  • Delivering products to consumer relevant quality standards
  • Translating consumer insights and concepts into robust product solutions
  • Robust trial, validation and manufacturing of products
  • Ingredient sourcing, maintain technical relationships and managing technical information
  • Research consultancies, laboratories, Universities as required to build technical knowledge and product validations

What's required?

  • Working knowledge and experience of food manufacturing, relevant experience preferably in powder handling and processing
  • Ability to lead and deliver technical work programs with a cross functional team. Able to manage multiple complex projects through business stage and gate process
  • Experience of and ability to launch products in multiple markets, working with multinational supply base and of supplier development, with creative development and problem-solving skills
  • Sound technical knowledge of powder manufacturing processes eg. dairy processing and dry powder technology / processing including agglomeration / spray drying, or ability to apply existing technical knowledge to this field
  • Strong ability to understand, interpret and challenge effectively the analysis of data presented by internal associates and external suppliers/consultants
  • Passion for technical development of beverage and food products. Excellent working knowledge of food science, manufacturing processes, quality assurance principles, ingredient supply and market research practices
  • Strong communication and influencing skills. Ability to leverage interpersonal skills to form strong relationships and build network
  • Ability to apply technical knowledge and skills in a manufacturing and commercial environment
  • Ability to understand market trends and translate to efficient product development solutions

What's in it for you?

£45,000.00 - £55,000.00 per annum

Do you think you fit the criteria?

Want to find out more about the role?

ID 113