At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative food product development projects for iconic brands like Magnum and Ben & Jerry's.
- Company: Join a global FMCG leader known for its creative ice cream products.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work in a modern facility with beautiful outdoor spaces and potential travel opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the food industry while working with passionate teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in food product development and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 43000 £ per year.
Manpower are currently seeking an interim Senior Product Developer (Food) to work with our global FMCG client The Magnum Ice Cream Company, renowned for brands such as Magnum, Ben & Jerry's, Cornetto and Wall's, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment. The position is based at our client's Research & Development facility, at Colworth Science Park, in Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire (MK44), accessible by car or shuttle bus from Bedford train station.
This is a full-time temporary role to run until mid-March 2027, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £43,000 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.
The EU Ice Cream Research Development and Innovation (RD&I) team is the driving force behind the creation and delivery of benefit-led, innovative ice cream products across our world-renowned global, premium, and regional brands. The team embrace agile innovation and are fully connected to countries and markets to land global, regional, and local projects in the markets.
In this role you will be the RD&I first point of contact in an area of the portfolio. You will lead projects in close partnership across functions (Marketing; Supply Chain; Procurement) as well as key (external) partners and suppliers. You will manage a portfolio of projects across innovation, quality, complexity and cost reduction, using your understanding of consumer and customer needs to shape and deliver brilliant, sustainable product experiences.
Key Accountabilities- Plan, organise and execute a variety of project types as assigned under guidance from line manager, working closely with RD&I experts from a variety of fields.
- Work closely with marketing teams in global, European and local country teams to define projects scope at start of projects.
- Use your creative talents to develop great products.
- Lead technical delivery of projects, including product concept development; formulation design; lab and pilot plant prototypes; cost calculation; specifications; quality assessments; legislation compliance checks and claims assessments.
- Manage supplier relationships working closely with other functions such as Procurement.
- Lead and manage pilot plant and factory trials for prototype/product development.
- Write and manage specifications and systems data for the products you work on.
- Provide key updates for our Innovation Process Management and other relevant systems.
- Develop selling stories and support Customer Development teams with sell-in meetings.
- Provide support and training for more junior members of the team.
- Experience of leading projects from brief to delivering in-market is essential.
- Must have experience in the food sector - background in food technology or product development preferred.
- Degree level qualification (or equivalent) and/or relevant experience in a technical discipline preferably in food technology or development.
- European language skills are highly desirable.
- Experience of working cross-functionally and with third parties.
- Passion for creative food product design and development.
- Excellent communication and project management skills.
- Attention to detail especially with experimentation, data recording and analysis.
- Time management and priority setting.
- Health & Safety awareness.
Occasional short business-trips within Europe may be required. 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.
Senior Product Developer (Food) in Sharnbrook employer: The Magnum Ice Cream Company
The Magnum Ice Cream Company offers an exceptional working environment at Colworth Science Park, where creativity and innovation thrive in a modern, beautiful setting. Employees benefit from a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in the FMCG sector, fostering both personal and professional growth. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration, this role provides a unique chance to contribute to iconic brands while enjoying a supportive and dynamic work culture.
Contact Details:
The Magnum Ice Cream Company Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Product Developer (Food) in Sharnbrook
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the food industry, especially those connected to the Magnum Ice Cream Company. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance to discuss your ideas, make sure to highlight your innovative approach to product development. We want to see how you can bring fresh concepts to the table!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your project management skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've led projects from start to finish, especially in the food sector. We love hearing about real experiences!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are eager to join our team and make a difference in the food industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Product Developer (Food) in Sharnbrook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Product Developer role. Highlight your experience in food technology and product development, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant projects you've led from start to finish.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for creative food product design and development. Mention specific brands or projects that excite you about working with The Magnum Ice Cream Company.
Showcase Your Cross-Functional Experience:Since this role involves working closely with marketing, procurement, and suppliers, make sure to highlight any cross-functional projects you've been part of. We want to see how you’ve collaborated with different teams to achieve great results.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Magnum Ice Cream Company
✨Know Your Ice Cream
Familiarise yourself with the Magnum Ice Cream Company and its brands. Understand their product lines, recent innovations, and market positioning. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your passion for the food sector and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare specific examples of projects you've led from concept to market. Highlight your experience in cross-functional collaboration, especially with marketing and procurement teams. Be ready to discuss how you managed timelines, budgets, and stakeholder expectations to deliver successful outcomes.
✨Emphasise Your Creative Side
Since this role involves product development, be prepared to share your creative process. Discuss how you approach product design and innovation, and bring along any relevant portfolio pieces or case studies that showcase your ability to develop unique food products.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's innovation strategies and future projects. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the company culture aligns with your values. Consider asking about their approach to sustainability in product development, as it's a key focus area.
