Product Developer

Manpower is currently looking for a Product Developer to work with our global FMCG client, renowned for brands such as Magnum, Carte d’Or, Cornetto, and Walls. The position is based at our client's Research & Development facility at Colworth Science Park, in Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire (MK44), accessible by car. This is a full-time temporary role, till 31st December 2026, requiring 37.50 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £43,500 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience. The role currently offers a mix of remote and onsite working, subject to adjustment based on business requirements.

This role supports the European RD&I agenda within Ben & Jerry’s Global RD&I. The successful candidate will contribute to the innovation programme and ensure continuity of existing products, leading smaller initiatives and supporting more complex projects. Collaboration across multiple RD&I disciplines, Marketing, Supply Chain, Procurement, and external partners is essential. A passion for consumers, trends, and delivering meaningful product experiences is key.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Plan, organise and execute a variety of project types as assigned under guidance from line manager, working closely with R&D experts from a variety of fields.
• Work closely with marketing teams in the European and local country teams to define projects scope at start of projects.
• Support or lead technical delivery of projects, covering diverse topics such as: product concepts; formulation design and specifications; lab and pilot plant prototypes; cost, quality assessments; sustainability, legislation compliance and claims.
• Use creativity and collaborate with our Global Chef to develop great products.
• Work closely with key internal partners such as: Marketing, Supply Chain and Finance.
• Manage supplier relationships working closely with other functions such as Procurement.
• Write and manage specifications and systems data for the products you work on.

We’re looking for individuals who can actively contribute to driving impact across our social, product and economic mission while fostering the strong sense of community and connectivity that defines our culture. Other required skills/experiences – hard skills needed for the role:

• Great knowledge of and passion for product design and creative product development.
• Experience of leading delivery of projects from brief to market is desirable.
• Experience of working cross-functionally.
• Excellent communication, project management skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Attention to detail especially in experimentation, data recording and analysis.
• Understanding of scale-up and operational implementation.
• Time management and priority setting.
• Degree level qualification (or equivalent) and/or relevant experience in a technical discipline preferably in food technology or development.

A unique mix of global scale & start-up spirit—€7.9 bn powerhouse with an agile, entrepreneurial mindset. We’re building a new high growth Ice Cream company from the ground up. Career without limits—42 markets, international opportunities, and fast tracked growth. A performance-driven culture—Freedom to act, disrupt and grow – your success is measured by impact. A company that celebrates joy, innovation, and purpose—We create extraordinary careers, just like our ice cream creates extraordinary moments.

Please apply online and do not forget to upload your CV. Your application will be reviewed against the requirements, and we will be in touch shortly after the closing date, with an update on the status of your application.

The Magnum Ice Cream Company embraces diversity and encourages applicants from all walks of life. This means giving full and fair consideration to all applicants and continuing development of all employees regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, and pregnancy and maternity.

For the recruitment of this position, we would like to emphasize that local conditions apply to the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Magnum Ice Cream Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, or any other basis protected by applicable law, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Colworth Science Park working environment: 9 miles from Bedford, 18 miles from M1, modern working environment in a beautiful, listed building, large green outdoor spaces. Shuttle bus is provided from Bedfordshire area to Site.