Product Developer in Bedford

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, 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. It is a full-time temporary role until 31 December 2026, requiring 37.50 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is up to £43,500 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience. The role offers a mix of remote and onsite working, subject to 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.

• 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 project scope at start of projects.
• Support or lead technical delivery of projects, covering 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 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.

• 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.
• Career opportunities across 42 markets with international opportunities and fast tracked growth.
• A performance-driven culture with freedom to act, disrupt and grow, measured by impact.
• A company that celebrates joy, innovation, and purpose, creating extraordinary careers and moments.

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.