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.
Key Requirements
- 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 is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and advancement in the fast-paced FMCG sector. Our culture prioritises efficiency and quality, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in our success while enjoying the unique advantage of working in a creative and fun industry.
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
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like The Magnum Ice Cream Company.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from The Magnum Ice Cream Company!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like The Magnum Ice Cream Company, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at The Magnum Ice Cream Company, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Product Developer (Food) in Sharnbrook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at The Magnum Ice Cream Company, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at The Magnum Ice Cream Company.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to The Magnum Ice Cream Company. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at The Magnum Ice Cream Company. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Magnum Ice Cream Company
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to The Magnum Ice Cream Company’s mission.