So, what will I be doing?
Under the direction of the Innovation Manager, as Senior Innovation Technologist you will support in the launching & evaluating of new & existing products in the following categories (yogurt, ice cream, desserts, savoury & fruit).
The role will work closely with cross-functional teams to assist in the delivery of cutting-edge, high-quality product concepts. Main areas of focus are:
Supporting Innovation Manager in concept creation
Improving raw material and packaging knowledge
Product formulation knowledge across multiple categories.
This role is critical in shaping the future of the Yeo Valley Product Portfolio.
Below are some of the key responsibilities for this role:
Assist in the co-ordination, production and delivery of kitchen samples.
Liaising with existing suppliers for new ingredients within a set list of parameters.
Collaborate with Process Development teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and EPD modifications.
Support with customer engagement and supporting customer presentations.
Conduct market reviews & product benchmarking to analyse competitor products to help identify new trends, opportunities and insights.
Work with the stakeholders to ensure buy-in of new concept ideas and products to deliver “First to Market” innovation ideas
To assist in the generation of the critical path and delivery of projects that meets the target launch date
Prepare & maintain accurate documentation related to innovation development.
This role is a 12 month Fixed Term Contract working 40 hours per week (Monday – Friday), and the role is based at our Blagdon HQ.
Sounds interesting, what do I need?
Essential:
Project Management – Experience in managing multiple product development projects simultaneously, with a focus on meeting deadlines.
Teamwork – Ability to work well with a collaborative, cross-functional team environment.
Problem solving – Proactive and strong hands-on approach to trouble shooting
Communication – Good verbal & written communication skills with the ability to present ideas and data clearly to technical & non-technical stakeholders
Qualifications:
Food qualification or previous related food manufacturing experience in Innovation
Minimum 2 years of post-graduate experience in a food process NPD role.
Desirable Skills:
Industry Knowledge – Working knowledge of relevant legislation criteria and food production industry standards/HACCP
Personal Attributes:
Detail-Oriented – Attention to detail in both product development and documentation
Adaptability – Able to work in a fast-paced environment and adjust to changing priorities & project timelines. Resilience and supporting others are key
Tenacious & “can do” attitude
Self-driven with a growth mindset & can use initiative
Hands on & practical approach to working
Good IT skills – Microsoft and database systems
Why should I join the family?
We’re independent, British and proud to be making the highest quality yogurts, desserts and ice cream under the Yeo Valley brand and for many of the UK’s major retailers. Operating from four dairies and two logistics centres in Somerset and Devon, we employ over 1700 staff and produce more than 25% of the UK’s packaged yogurt.
We’re sure you don’t need convincing, but there’s a whole host of benefits that we offer including:
competitive holiday allowance
non-contributory pension scheme
life cover
healthcare cash back plan
cycle to work scheme
subsidised Yeo Valley products and services
preferential rates with our partners
annual bonus (as part of the Employee Benefit Trust, based on company performance for the year)
learning and development opportunities; we’re committed to ensuring all of our employees have the chance to grow
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