Food Development Manager (QSR Brand) in City of London

The Company

This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing QSR / Food To Go brand with locations across the UK. The business prides itself on combining product innovation, operational excellence and supply chain efficiencies, and is at the point in their journey where they are scaling and building something meaningful. They are looking for a commercially astute NPD professional who has the creativity and discipline to help them grow. The role is based out of their Central London office (4 days per week).

The Role

Reporting to the Operations Director, you will take on a broad role that covers NPD, commercial, supplier management, menu launch and store training for the brand’s product offering. You will be responsible for leading the product agenda and creating trend-led product ideas which fit into the overarching brand strategy. This will mean being accountable for the full concept to post-launch cycle across the menu. You will own the recipe costings, make sure all new and existing menu items are optimised and align with the company’s financial targets.

You’ll work with a range of suppliers to source new ingredients, building fabulous relationships and negotiating the best price for the quality ingredients you need with margins that work. You’ll be using sales data to understand product profitability and identify menu gaps. Lastly, you will work with store teams, engaging and supporting them with menu launches and implementation. You’ll be the go-to person within the business for anything menu, product or supplier related.

The Candidate

This is a role where you will be involved with everything to do with the brand's product offering so broad experience would work well. This will ideally come from working within a fast-paced QSR / Coffee Shop / Food to Go brand with multiple sites. Would suit an ambitious Product Developer who is commercially astute, does not shy away from negotiating to get the best ingredients, and is passionate about every aspect of menu development and launch – talented enough to step up and take full product ownership. Or it could also suit a really foodie Buyer who has proven commercial acumen within QSR and is looking to broaden their product development skills, following their passion for food. As the business is growing, this role could lead to a Head of Food position in a couple of years.

These roles don’t surface very often so apply or call Georgina to have a confidential chat and find out if this scaling QSR brand fits with your career aspirations.

Please apply or contact Georgina on 07700 137 110 or 0345 2600 737 Ref: 6981. Due to the large number of applications our opportunities attract, it sometimes takes us time to thoroughly review and consider them all. We endeavour to respond to every application within 5 working days; however, if you have not heard from us within this timeframe, we are sorry to say your application for the role has not been successful.

To support you in showcasing your best self, we make sure that any necessary accommodations, whether physical or non-physical, are provided to assist you throughout the job application and interview process. At Blue Spark Organisation, we believe in authenticity, individuality, and inclusion. We are dedicated to ensuring that all our current and future candidates have equal opportunities and are treated with respect and appreciation, allowing them to bring their genuine selves to the workplace, regardless of background, appearance, sexual orientation, or beliefs.

Also, please note that we are only able to accept and respond to applications from candidates with eligibility to work in the UK and those who hold valid work visas.