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- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and lead product development for First Class menus.
- Company: SSP, a global leader in food and beverage outlets at travel locations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, TPE Leisure Pass, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Shape high-profile catering offers and enhance the travel experience.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in product development or supply chain.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to sustainability and positive impact.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 38000 £ per year.
Location: Manchester | Salary: £34,500 p.a. + TPE Leisure Pass (after 3 months)
SSP is a global leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations employing 49,000 colleagues in around 3,000 units across nearly 40 countries. We specialise in designing, creating and operating a diverse range of food and drink outlets in airports, train stations and other travel hubs. In the UK and Ireland, we operate over 450 sit-down and quick service restaurants, bars, cafés, lounges, and food-led convenience stores at around 170 locations.
Our extensive portfolio of own brands, such as Upper Crust, AMT Coffee and Millie’s Cookies, and award-winning brands like Shelby, a FAB Award winner, and franchise brands including M&S Food, Starbucks and Burger King, is complemented by a growing range of premium bars and casual dining options to meet the diverse needs of our clients and customers. Our purpose is to be the best part of the journey, and our focus is on making every journey taste better – bringing great food and welcoming hospitality to travellers across the globe. Sustainability is crucial for our long-term success, and we aim to deliver positive impact for our business while uniting stakeholders to promote a sustainable food travel sector.
Rail Gourmet (RG) is a proud part of SSP and we are a leading provider of food, beverage and specialist solutions to the train industry, and offer a one stop shop solution – from logistics and supply chain; concept, marketing and retail, to menu and product, technology and on-board service.
We’re looking for a Product Development & Supply Chain Manager at RG to support and enhance the food and beverage experience across the TPE route.
The Role
- Manage supplier relationships and product lines, including route‑specific items
- Lead product development for First Class menus and Retail ranges
- Work closely with TPE to understand and deliver their product expectations
- Ensure a robust, efficient supply chain across all RG service centres
- Coordinate menu launches, product presentations, and stock agreements
- Oversee Service Centre Team Leaders on stock levels and order management
- Compile reports, data, pricing and benchmarking analysis
What We’re Looking For
- Strong stakeholder and supplier management skills
- Excellent communication and organisational ability
- Experience in product development or supply chain roles (ideal)
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach
What You’ll Get
- Competitive salary of £34,500 p.a.
- TPE Leisure Pass after 3 months
- The chance to shape and deliver a high-profile on-board catering offer
- The support of a collaborative and passionate team
At SSP & RG, we value diversity and are committed to building a team that reflects a variety of skills, talents, and backgrounds.
Product Development & Supply Chain Manager employer: SSP UK & Ireland
Contact Detail:
SSP UK & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Development & Supply Chain Manager
✨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
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their values and how they operate, especially in the food and beverage sector. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in product development and supply chain management can benefit the team at RG. Keep it concise and focus on how you can enhance the food and beverage experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to making every journey taste better.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Development & Supply Chain Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Development & Supply Chain Manager role. Highlight your experience in supplier management and product development, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you’re passionate about food and beverage experiences and how you can contribute to our mission of making every journey taste better. Keep it engaging and relevant to the role.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is vital for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to convey ideas clearly. Whether it's through your CV or cover letter, demonstrate how you've effectively managed stakeholder relationships in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at SSP!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSP UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Product Development
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of product development processes, especially in the food and beverage sector. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and developed products that meet customer expectations.
✨Showcase Your Supply Chain Savvy
Prepare examples of how you've optimised supply chains in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have with logistics and stock management, as this will be crucial for the role at Rail Gourmet.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since strong communication skills are key, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, especially when discussing past experiences.
✨Demonstrate a Solutions-Focused Mindset
Be ready to share instances where you've proactively solved problems in your previous roles. This could involve overcoming challenges in product launches or managing stakeholder expectations effectively.
