NPD Technologist

NPD Technologist

Full-Time 30150 - 36850 £ / year (est.) Hybrid
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead exciting NPD projects from concept to launch, ensuring top-notch product quality.
  • Company: Join Speedibake, a dynamic company passionate about food innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Fast-paced environment with a focus on creativity and collaboration.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in food innovation while building strong customer relationships.
  • Qualifications: 3-5 years of NPD experience and a passion for food trends required.

The predicted salary is between 30150 - 36850 £ per year.

Overview of role

Company

Speedibake

Location

Bradford/Hybrid

Reporting to the NPD Controller the role is responsible for key NPD customer account management, ensuring the development of new products from initial brief to product launch.

This role ensures our products are developed and launched to meet customer expectations and food safety requirements while driving positive customer relationships and account growth.

  • Key Accountabilities
  • Accountabilities
  • Leadership & People Management
  • Manage NPD projects from concept through to launch, ensuring delivery on time, within budget and in line with customer expectations.
  • Support the delivery of the NPD strategy through customer focused, market led and trend-driven product development.
  • Lead customer meetings, presentations and product reviews in accordance with NPD procedures and business objectives.
  • Take ownership of product development activities, ensuring effective planning and execution of trials, pre productions and launches.
  • Maintain a strong factory presence, leading and supporting trials and launches, developing an in-depth understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment capabilities and operational constraints.
  • Work closely with Packaging, Procurement and Technical teams to ensure packaging solutions meet customer, operational, legal and sustainability requirements and are delivered in line with project critical paths.
  • Act as the primary NPD contact for designated customer accounts, providing technical expertise and project leadership throughout the product development lifecycle.
  • Develop and maintain strong partnerships with Sales colleagues to deliver a joined-up approach to customer strategy, account growth and innovation objectives.
  • Generate and maintain all NPD documentation required for customer submissions, internal approval processes and successful project delivery.

Build and nurture strong customer relationships, acting as a trusted development contact to support business growth.

  • Facilitate innovation workshops, product presentations and customer review meetings to drive engagement and pipeline development.
  • Develop and manage product costings, ensuring products are delivered in line with agreed cost targets, margin requirements and commercial objectives.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Technical, Procurement, Commercial and Supply Chain teams to ensure successful project delivery.
  • Communicate project progress effectively, highlighting key milestones, risks, and critical path activities.
  • Ensure all products are developed in compliance with relevant health and safety, food safety, legal requirements, customer codes of practice, BRC standards and Speedibake policies.
  • Work proactively with Procurement to identify, approve and introduce new suppliers and raw materials in accordance with company procedures and NPD processes.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and deliver cost savings.
  • Maintain high standards of health, safety and hygiene within the test bakery and wider development environment.
  • Support factory launches and post-launch reviews to ensure products are successfully embedded into operational manufacture.
  • The Right Person
  • Functional Skills
  • Passion for food innovation, consumer trends and NPD.
  • 3-5 years' NPD experience delivering products from concept to launch.
  • Experience of product development, factory trials, scale-up and launches.
  • Strong project management, organisation and prioritisation skills.
  • Effective communicator with excellent stakeholder relationship management.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Full UK driving licence.
  • Critical Behaviours
  • To always adhere to the Company Safety First requirements.
  • Takes ownership, sets standards & takes personal responsibility for performance.
  • Be prepared to challenge, and to be challenged.
  • Think differently, because we’ve always done it, doesn’t mean it’s right.
  • Create a lasting impression.
  • Willing to go the extra mile.
  • Adheres to Speedibake values every day

NPD Technologist employer: Associated British Foods

Hovis Bakeries is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that values both experienced and newly qualified HGV Class 2 Drivers. With competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and ongoing training opportunities, employees can thrive in their roles while enjoying a healthy work-life balance in the vibrant location of Stockport. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that takes pride in delivering quality products and excellent service.

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Contact Details:

Associated British Foods Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land NPD Technologist

✨Join Food Science Communities

Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Associated British Foods.

✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops

Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Associated British Foods!

✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech

Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Associated British Foods, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.

✨Leverage University Career Services

If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Associated British Foods, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!

We think you need these skills to ace NPD Technologist

NPD Project Management
Customer Account Management
Product Development
Food Safety Compliance
Stakeholder Relationship Management
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Cost Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Associated British Foods, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!

Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Associated British Foods.

Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Associated British Foods. Make it personal and compelling!

Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Associated British Foods. It shows you're committed to your professional development.

How to prepare for a job interview at Associated British Foods

✨Know Your Lab Tech!

Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.

✨Show Off Your Project Experience

Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.

✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills

Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!

✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends

Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Associated British Foods’s mission.