At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative food development projects in seafood and pork, from concept to launch.
- Company: Sofina Foods is a global leader in sustainable food production with over 13,000 employees.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, online benefits hub, life insurance, and health programmes.
- Why this job: Join a culture of innovation and sustainability while making a positive impact on the world.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in food product development; HNC/HND in Food Science or equivalent experience required.
- Other info: Work in a diverse team and contribute to delivering over 500 million meals globally each year.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Summary
A Hands-On Role at the Heart of Innovation in Food Development
The Role
Sofina Foods is seeking a detail-driven, collaborative Product Development Technologist to support and lead innovation across our Seafood and Pork ranges. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you’ll play a key role in developing and delivering category-leading products that meet the high standards of both our internal and retail partners.
This role is perfect for someone with technical experience and a true passion for food – someone who thrives on turning great ideas into commercially successful, high-quality products.
Your Key Responsibilities
- Work collaboratively with technical, commercial, and operational teams to deliver projects from concept to launch
- Ensure all new product development complies with relevant food safety, quality, hygiene, and legal standards
- Be hands-on in the kitchen and on-site, translating customer briefs into innovative, commercially viable solutions
- Act as a key contributor to project timelines, costings, and product trials across multiple sites
The Ideal Candidate
- Experienced in chilled and frozen seafood and/or pork product development, with a minimum of 3 years in a relevant role
- Qualified to HNC/HND level in Food Science, Technology or similar – or with equivalent practical experience
- Confident presenting ideas and results to internal teams and retail customers
- Strong in communication – both written and verbal – and comfortable working cross-functionally
- Commercially aware, with a good understanding of costing and margin management
- Passionate about food, trends, and innovation – with a genuine curiosity for what’s next
Why Sofina Foods?
- Competitive rates
- Online Benefits Hub
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Company pension
- Referral programme
- Health & wellbeing programme
Company Information
Sofina Foods is more than just a food company. It’s a place where you can grow your career, learn new skills, and make a positive impact on the world.
With a wide range of meat and seafood products that delight consumers worldwide, Sofina Foods is always looking for talented and passionate people to join its team of over 13,000 employees across 40 sites in Canada and Europe, including Young’s Seafood and Karro Food Group.
At Sofina Foods, you will be part of a culture that values innovation, quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. You will also have the opportunity to work with diverse and delicious products that are sourced responsibly and sustainably from over 50 different protein sources from 5 continents.
Sofina Foods has a 25 year history of excellence in the food industry and provides over 500 million meals for the global market every year.
Our vision is to be the most successful food company in the world. If you are looking for a rewarding and exciting career in the food sector, Sofina Foods is the place for you.
Equal Opportunities
Sofina Foods is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences – regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Schedule
Monday to Friday
Location
Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire
Hours of Work
Full-time
Company
Sofina Foods
Country Code
GB
AutoReqId
4715BR #J-18808-Ljbffr
NPD Technologist employer: Sofina Foods Europe
Contact Detail:
Sofina Foods Europe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land NPD Technologist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in seafood and pork product development. Being knowledgeable about current market demands and innovations will help you stand out during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food industry, especially those involved in product development. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals to Sofina Foods.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your hands-on experience in the kitchen. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you translated customer briefs into successful products, as this practical knowledge is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Understand the importance of compliance with food safety and quality standards. Brush up on relevant regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in your previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace NPD Technologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in product development, particularly in seafood and pork. Emphasise any hands-on roles you've had and your qualifications in Food Science or Technology.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food innovation and your understanding of the industry. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively and meet high standards.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on your communication skills, both written and verbal. Provide examples of how you've successfully presented ideas to teams or customers, as this is crucial for the role.
Showcase Your Knowledge of Trends: Demonstrate your awareness of current food trends and innovations in your application. This could be through mentioning specific trends you’ve worked with or your curiosity about future developments in the food sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sofina Foods Europe
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for food innovation during the interview. Share specific examples of how your passion has driven your previous projects and how you stay updated on food trends.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your technical experience in product development, especially in seafood and pork. Highlight any relevant qualifications and practical experiences that showcase your expertise in food safety and quality standards.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this role involves working with various teams, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with different departments. Be ready to discuss how you communicate effectively and contribute to project timelines and costings.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
As presenting ideas is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to share how you've presented results to internal teams or retail customers in the past, focusing on your ability to engage and persuade.