At a Glance
- Tasks: Create innovative food products from concept to launch while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Company: Leading international food manufacturer focused on sustainability and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and exposure to breakthrough technologies.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for global collaboration.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in food innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in product development and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are partnering with a leading international food manufacturer operating across highly competitive FMCG markets. The business is continuing to invest heavily in innovation, sustainability, product transformation and future-focused technologies, with a strong emphasis on delivering category-leading products that meet evolving consumer and customer expectations.
This is an exciting opportunity for a Product Development / Innovation professional to join a global innovation and technology team focused on delivering breakthrough product development projects from concept through to pilot and factory trial stage. The successful candidate will support the delivery of an ambitious innovation pipeline, working closely with cross-functional teams to translate commercial and consumer insights into technically viable product solutions.
Key Responsibilities- Develop recipes and product concepts in line with technical and commercial briefs
- Support the creation and delivery of innovative product solutions aligned to consumer trends and business growth objectives
- Prepare bench samples and support pilot plant and factory trials
- Assist in overcoming technical development challenges through structured problem-solving and experimentation
- Work closely with ingredient and equipment suppliers to identify new materials, technologies and processes
- Conduct analytical and technical assessments including texture, rheology and product performance evaluation
- Analyse trial data and provide recommendations for next development stages
- Support the completion of technical documentation including specifications, quality attributes and project records
- Ensure projects are delivered in line with agreed quality, cost and timeline expectations
- Collaborate with commercial, operations, technical and regional teams to support innovation delivery across multiple markets
- Contribute to sustainability, reformulation and continuous improvement initiatives
- Maintain safe and hygienic working standards within development and trial environments
- Experience within Product Development, NPD or Innovation in FMCG or food manufacturing
- Strong understanding of product development processes from concept through to launch
- Experience supporting factory trials and pilot plant activities
- Comfortable working cross-functionally within fast-paced manufacturing environments
- Strong technical and analytical skills with the ability to interpret trial and product data
- Understanding of ingredients, formulations and food processing technologies
- Organised with good project management and documentation skills
- Able to work collaboratively with internal teams and external suppliers
- Passion for food innovation, consumer trends and continuous improvement
- Experience within ambient food products
- Knowledge of texture analysis, rheology or ingredient functionality
- Experience supporting sustainability or reformulation projects
- Exposure to global or multi-site product development projects
- Opportunity to work on high-profile innovation projects
- Exposure to global product development and breakthrough technologies
- Collaborative and fast-paced innovation environment
- Career development opportunities within a large international food business
- Competitive salary and benefits package
Product Development Technologist in Southampton employer: Protea Recruitment Ltd
Join a leading international food manufacturer in Buckinghamshire, where innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of our mission. As a Product Development Technologist, you'll thrive in a collaborative and fast-paced environment, working on high-profile projects that shape the future of food. With ample career development opportunities and a competitive benefits package, this is an excellent place for passionate professionals eager to make a meaningful impact in the FMCG sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Development Technologist in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the food manufacturing industry on LinkedIn or at local events. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that Product Development Technologist role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous product development projects, especially those that highlight your innovation and problem-solving abilities. This will give you an edge when discussing your experience with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses to common questions in the FMCG sector. We all know that confidence is key, so let’s get you feeling ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you a better chance of standing out. Let’s get you on the path to that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Product Development Technologist in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Product Development Technologist role. Highlight your experience in FMCG and food manufacturing, and show how your skills align with our focus on innovation and sustainability.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for food innovation shine through! Share examples of projects you've worked on that demonstrate your understanding of consumer trends and your ability to develop exciting product concepts.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We want to see your technical skills and project management abilities without any fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity in our global innovation team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Protea Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ingredients, formulations, and food processing technologies. Being able to discuss how different components interact in a recipe will show your technical expertise and passion for product development.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled technical challenges in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, demonstrating your analytical skills and ability to overcome obstacles in product development.
✨Understand Consumer Trends
Familiarise yourself with current consumer trends in the food industry. Be ready to discuss how these trends can influence product development and innovation, showing that you can align your ideas with the company's goals for growth and sustainability.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since this role involves working cross-functionally, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with different teams. Highlight your communication skills and how you can bring diverse perspectives together to drive innovation.
