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- Tasks: Lead the innovation agenda and develop exciting new snack products.
- Company: Join Calbee, Japan’s #1 snack brand with a rich history and ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a culture that values innovation.
- Other info: Collaborative role with opportunities for international exposure and travel.
- Why this job: Shape snacks enjoyed by millions and make a real impact in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in FMCG product development and strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Calbee is Japan’s #1 snack brand and one of the world’s largest snack manufacturers, creating snacks loved by millions across Asia and beyond for over 50 years. Since 1945, Seabrook Crisps has been crafting bold, distinctive snacks that stand out from the crowd. Seabrook joined the Calbee group in 2018, entering an exciting new phase of growth.
This is not just another R&D role. As Innovation Manager - Snacks, you’ll be at the forefront of our innovation agenda. Working closely with R&D colleagues and the wider Marketing team, you’ll own and drive the development of exciting new products across both our branded and own label portfolios. You’ll have real influence, real visibility, and the chance to make a tangible impact on snacks enjoyed by millions.
Working at the intersection of Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Operations and our global R&D network, you’ll take ideas from insight to shelf, creating commercially successful, consumer-loved products in a fast-moving, highly collaborative environment.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead the snacks innovation agenda with purpose – shape and deliver a forward-thinking NPD pipeline aligned to brand strategy
- Own the end-to-end development process – from concept creation through to successful product launch
- Bring ideas to life – develop concepts, create samples, and collaborate with suppliers to refine products
- Partner with customers – work closely with major UK retailers to deliver winning own label solutions
- Drive cross-functional delivery – lead cross functional project teams with colleagues from Operations, Marketing, Sales, and Supply Chain
- Embed a culture of innovation – champion creativity, pace, and continuous improvement across the business
This is a hands-on role where your ideas, energy, and expertise will directly shape the future.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in FMCG product development (4+ years)
- Strong track record of delivering NPD projects from concept to launch
- Confident leading cross-functional teams and managing multiple projects
- Experience working with UK retailers on own-label development (advantageous)
- Knowledge of frying/extrusion technologies (desirable – especially in savoury snacks)
- Strong organisational and IT skills
- Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or similar
- Full UK driving licence
Bonus Points If You Have
- Previous exposure to international teams or global brands
- Japanese language skills
Who You Are
- A natural collaborator who can influence at all levels and forge strong working partnerships
- Resilient, adaptable, and calm under pressure
- Proactive, driven, and solutions-focused
- Commercially aware with strong prioritisation skills
- Curious, creative, and always looking for better ways to do things
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a growing, ambitious business backed by a global leader
- Work in a culture where innovation is genuinely valued and encouraged
- Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package
- Access career development opportunities within an international group
- Play a key role in shaping products that reach millions of consumers across the UK
Location
- Deeside, close to Chester, Manchester and Liverpool
- Some travel to Bradford HQ
- Occasional global and wider UK travel
How to Apply: If you’re ready to take the next step in your R&D career and want to be part of an exciting growth journey, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV and cover letter to:
Innovation Manager - Snacks in Deeside employer: Calbee Group UK Ltd
Contact Detail:
Calbee Group UK Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovation Manager - Snacks in Deeside
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for snacks! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, share your ideas about innovative snack products. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and creativity, making you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the role of Innovation Manager. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've led and how you’ve collaborated with cross-functional teams to bring products to market.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our exciting journey at Calbee.
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Manager - Snacks in Deeside
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV: Make sure your CV stands out by highlighting your relevant experience in FMCG product development. We want to see your journey and achievements, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills and successes!
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tailor it to reflect how your background aligns with our innovation agenda. Let us know why you’re excited about shaping the future of snacks with us.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit: We love team players! In your application, share examples of how you've successfully worked with cross-functional teams. Highlighting your collaborative experiences will show us you’re a great fit for our culture.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Calbee Group UK Ltd
✨Know Your Snacks
Before the interview, dive deep into the world of snacks! Familiarise yourself with Calbee and Seabrook's product lines, their unique flavours, and recent innovations. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your NPD Experience
Be ready to discuss specific examples of your previous NPD projects. Highlight your role in taking products from concept to launch, especially in the FMCG sector. Use metrics to demonstrate your success and how your contributions made a tangible impact.
✨Collaboration is Key
Since this role involves working with cross-functional teams, prepare to share experiences where you successfully collaborated with different departments. Emphasise your ability to build strong relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.
✨Embrace Creativity and Innovation
Calbee values innovation, so come prepared with ideas! Think about potential new snack concepts or improvements to existing products. Discuss how you foster a culture of creativity in your work and how you can bring that energy to the team.