At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sensory and consumer research to drive impactful business decisions.
- Company: Join McCormick, a leader in flavour solutions with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with a commitment to inclusivity and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in product innovation while working with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in Sensory Science or related field; experience in FMCG preferred.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
This role is responsible for applying sensory and consumer science expertise to drive meaningful business decisions across McCormick Dry Flavour Solutions portfolio (seasonings and coating systems). Working in close partnership with R&D, Commercial and Marketing teams, the position designs, executes and interprets robust research programmes that support innovation, optimisation, de-risking and customer projects across EMEA.
Main Responsibilities
- Lead sensory & consumer research programmes across the Dry portfolio, from concept through launch, ensuring scientifically robust and commercially relevant methodologies.
- Partner cross-functionally with R&D, Marketing, Commercial and Quality teams to translate project briefs into actionable research plans and insights.
- Design, analyse and interpret data from qualitative and quantitative methodologies (e.g. focus groups, CLTs, surveys), delivering clear recommendations to inform decision-making.
- Present insights with impact, compiling structured reports and communicating findings confidently to stakeholders and customers.
- Support customer engagement, advising on appropriate sensory approaches and contributing to technical discussions, proposals and project reviews.
- Drive functional excellence, applying international best practices and contributing to continuous improvement of sensory methodologies and processes.
- Build capability by delivering sensory and consumer science training internally and, where appropriate, externally to customers.
- Champion data governance for the Dry portfolio, supporting data integrity, standardisation and alignment with regional and global best practices.
Candidate Profile
- Degree in Sensory & Consumer Science, Food Science or related discipline.
- Relevant experience in sensory and consumer science within FMCG (food preferably) or B2B.
- Proven ability to independently design and manage end-to-end research programmes.
- Strong statistical analysis capability with experience interpreting complex datasets.
- Confident presenter, able to communicate technical findings to cross-functional and customer stakeholders.
- Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
- Effective influencer and collaborative team player, comfortable working across multicultural environments.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and sensory/consumer software (e.g. Compusense or equivalent).
Sensory & Consumer Scientist employer: McCormick & company
McCormick & Company is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation within the FMCG sector. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive compensation packages, and a commitment to work-life balance, all set against the backdrop of the vibrant UK market. Joining our Custom Flavour Solutions team means being part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your contributions and supports your career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sensory & Consumer Scientist
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We think you need these skills to ace Sensory & Consumer Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at McCormick & company, 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 McCormick & company.
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 McCormick & company. 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 McCormick & company. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at McCormick & company
✨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 McCormick & company’s mission.
