Food Development & Buying Manager (QSR Brand) in Slough

Food Development & Buying Manager (QSR Brand) in Slough

Slough Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Blue Spark Organisation Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead product development and menu launches for a fast-growing QSR brand.
  • Company: Join an innovative QSR brand making waves across the UK.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
  • Other info: Potential to advance to Head of Food role as the company grows.
  • Why this job: Be part of a creative team shaping exciting food trends and experiences.
  • Qualifications: Experience in product development or buying within the QSR sector.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

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.

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 & 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 // 0345 2600 737

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.

Food Development & Buying Manager (QSR Brand) in Slough employer: Blue Spark Organisation Ltd

Join a dynamic and innovative QSR brand in Central London, where creativity meets operational excellence. As a Food Development & Buying Manager, you'll thrive in a supportive work culture that values your input and fosters professional growth, with clear pathways to advance into leadership roles. Enjoy the unique advantage of working in a fast-paced environment that encourages collaboration and celebrates culinary passion, all while being part of a meaningful journey towards scaling a beloved brand.

Blue Spark Organisation Ltd

Contact Details:

Blue Spark Organisation Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Food Development & Buying Manager (QSR Brand) in Slough

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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd.

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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd!

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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd, 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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!

We think you need these skills to ace Food Development & Buying Manager (QSR Brand) in Slough

Product Development
Supplier Management
Menu Launch
Recipe Costing
Commercial Acumen
Negotiation Skills
Sales Data Analysis

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Blue Spark Organisation Ltd, 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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd.

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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd. 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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd. It shows you're committed to your professional development.

How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Spark Organisation Ltd

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 Blue Spark Organisation Ltd’s mission.