Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support product development from concept to launch while collaborating with various teams.
- Company: Join Brakes, part of Sysco GB, a leader in the foodservice industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous holidays, and discounts on food and entertainment.
- Why this job: Perfect for food lovers seeking hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Foodie with project management experience and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Must have a valid UK driving license and be open to travel.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Brakes, part of Sysco GB, are currently recruiting for a Product Development Executive to join the team on a full time, permanent basis. As a Product Development Executive, you will be working across several product categories as part of the merchandising function. The product development role works alongside procurement, technical, category and supply chain to support and deliver the wider team business strategy goals.
Your role is to support elements of the end-to-end development process to expedite the delivery of projects across categories. You will shadow development managers to gain full insight and knowledge of the development process from brief to launch. You will be trained to look after a small product group within a category or a supplier for ongoing development and career planning.
This role is offering a hybrid working contract, working 3 days per week in our Ashford, Kent office for team collaboration, so you must be in a commutable distance and open to travel as this role will require regular UK travelling and occasional European/International travelling.
Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities:
- Supporting in all food panels for existing product development and new product development.
- Product quality benchmarking.
- Organising of sample requests for external customers.
- Create supplier facing product development briefs for NPD & EPD.
- Review & validate first draft supplier specifications.
- Activity tracking: Track and monitor end to end new line set up process.
- Support with the implementation of Sysco product tiering.
- Ownership of critical timelines by task by project.
- Obtaining all food samples internally and externally for panels and benchmarking.
About you:
The ideal candidate will be a foodie at heart and have previous food product experience, within a food technology/manufacturing and/or hospitality industry. You will have some experience with project management and possess commercial business awareness, and will be able to communicate with multiple levels of stakeholders. You will have the ability to work independently and as part of a team to achieve your targets.
Successful candidates must hold a valid clean UK Driving License and have access to their own vehicle.
What you’ll receive:
- A competitive salary.
- Generous holiday allowance, with option to purchase 5 additional holiday days.
- Pension scheme.
- Hybrid working contract.
- Huge discounts on all sorts of lovely food and award-winning products through our staff shop.
- Discounts on cinema tickets, shopping and earn cashback on purchases through our colleague benefit scheme, Sysco Perks.
- Incentives and recognition awards for exceptional and long service.
- Career progression opportunities - being part of Sysco, the world’s leading foodservice business, opens up a world of possibility.
Locations
Product Development Executive (Ashford) employer: Brakes
Contact Detail:
Brakes Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Development Executive (Ashford)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the food product development process. Understanding how products move from concept to launch will give you an edge during interviews, as you'll be able to discuss specific stages and challenges.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food technology and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at Sysco.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for food by staying updated on current trends in the food industry. Being able to discuss recent innovations or popular products can demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge during conversations with hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your project management experience in detail. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed timelines and collaborated with various stakeholders, as this is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Development Executive (Ashford)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Product Development Executive position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with these aspects.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous experience in food product development, project management, or roles within the food technology/manufacturing or hospitality industry. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Showcase Your Passion: Since the ideal candidate is described as a 'foodie at heart', make sure to convey your passion for food and product development in your cover letter. Share any personal projects or interests related to food that showcase your enthusiasm.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brakes
✨Show Your Passion for Food
As a Product Development Executive, it's crucial to demonstrate your love for food. Share your experiences with food products, cooking, or any relevant projects that showcase your enthusiasm and knowledge in the food industry.
✨Understand the Development Process
Familiarise yourself with the end-to-end product development process. Be prepared to discuss how you would support various stages, from concept to launch, and highlight any relevant experience you have in project management.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since this role involves liaising with multiple stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with different teams or clients in the past, showcasing your interpersonal skills.
✨Be Ready for Questions on Travel Flexibility
Given the travel requirements of the role, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to travel. Highlight any previous experiences where travel was a part of your job, and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to explore new places.
