Junior Product Development Scientist in High Wycombe

This is an important role responsible for supporting in the development of protocepts to prototypes to fit with concepts that will drive brand strategies. They will work with cross-functional teams to bring to reality technical briefs. They will support the Head of Innovation in the delivery of an ambitious and transformational breakthrough product strategy that is aligned to the growth ambition and sustainability aspirations of the company. The role requires an individual who is competent and skilled at working across cultures and functions and collaborating to deliver with others. They need to be able to work effectively with internal and external partners to identify appropriate opportunities and drive development of innovative solutions, best practice approaches and systems.

Key Deliverables:

• Support delivery of developing technical concepts into product development.
• Supporting in the development of solutions to technical hurdles.
• Supporting in the provision of a technical response to the commercial brief.
• Delivering bench samples and supporting/leading in the running of pilot and factory trials.
• Supporting in ensuring costs are managed in line with trial budgets and project plans.

Essential:

The ideal candidate will have solid core technical skills, and be able to understand the needs of the business, our consumers and customers to support the Senior Product Development Manager in creating and driving an exciting product agenda. Specifically on Breakthrough product, the role needs to:

• Support in the delivery of the medium to long term roadmap to drive innovation sustainability and productivity.
• Support the development of protocepts to prototypes to fit with concepts that will drive brand strategies.
• Build internal cross-functional expertise and relationships to support delivery of the agenda.
• Work where needed with regional development teams.
• Build collaborative relationships with Suppliers, capturing and sharing best practices on the market.
• Support in building knowledge and expertise.

The position will report to the Senior Product Development Manager for the Savoury category. It is expected that the incumbent will work very closely with their counterparts across the Central Innovation & technology team to effectively develop protocepts and prototypes which fit with concepts aligned to growth areas and brand strategies.

Interview Process:

• Initial Telephone call with Talent Acquisition.
• 1st stage interview – 45 minutes competency-based interview based on our company values and your experiences.
• 2nd stage interview – 90 minutes – a technical interview to understand your skill set/case study or presentation interview.

pladis does also use both Psychometric and Aptitude tests to support our processes so you may be asked to complete these as part of your process. Some processes may differ, but we will keep you updated!

What does pladis offer you?

• Annual Incentive Plan (AIP)– this is the business’s annual bonus scheme.
• Opportunity to self-enrol into Health Cash Plan.
• Private medical Insurance (if eligible by grade).
• Enhanced parental leave and a supportive phased return-to-work program to help colleagues balance family and career.
• Stakeholder Pension Scheme.
• Life Assurance Cover ~ upon enrolment to Stakeholder Pension Scheme.
• 25 days + bank holidays.
• Holiday Enhancement Scheme.
• 1 Volunteering Day per year.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Discounted gym membership – Carlisle and Chiswick only.
• Discount and Cashback Scheme – make your everyday spending work hard for you on major high street brands, supermarkets and services.
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme.
• Financial Wellbeing Support.
• Access to great training and development opportunities.

Accessibility at Chiswick:

Our Chiswick site has step‑free access, accessible entrances and lifts between floors to support individuals with mobility needs. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, and where possible to perform key job functions.

pladis is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to hiring a diverse workforce. All openings will be filled based on qualifications without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.