At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovation in food development, from concept to customer handover.
- Company: Award-winning company with a strong sense of purpose and community support.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor a high-performing team and grow your career.
- Why this job: Drive product innovation while supporting sustainability and local charities.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in fast-paced UK food manufacturing and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 33186 - 40560 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Senior Development Manager to lead innovation at a business with an award-winning culture, a real sense of purpose and a passion for giving back that runs through everything it does, from ambitious sustainability goals to a heavy commitment to supporting local charities.
The role is offered on a 4 days on site, 1 day working from home basis.
This is your chance to take the reins on innovation for a major portfolio, owning the product journey from first concept through to customer handover.
You will be the driving force behind the NPD pipeline, working hand in hand with Commercial, Category, Technical and Operations teams to push boundaries on product and process innovation while keeping a sharp eye on commercial feasibility.
One minute you'll be elbow-deep in the development kitchen, the next you'll be presenting confidently to a major retail customer, bringing your knowledge and enthusiasm to every conversation.
We are looking for someone with at least four years' experience in a fast-paced UK food manufacturing environment, a natural ability to inspire and influence those around them, and genuine leadership credentials.
You will have two direct reports to develop and mentor, helping to build a team that's as engaged and high-performing as the site itself.
A full driving licence and your own transport are needed, as the role may involve occasional travel to other sites.
If you want to bring your passion for food and your commercial know-how to a site that truly lives its values and makes a difference beyond the factory floor, this could be the move you've been waiting for.
Send relevant CVs to (url removed) or call Nicola on (phone number removed)
As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop.
Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information.
If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website
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Exclusive - Senior Development Manager employer: Zest
Join a leading food manufacturing business in Cambridgeshire as a Site Services Engineer - Projects, where you'll be part of a dynamic team focused on energy efficiency and sustainability. Enjoy flexible working hours, a supportive work culture that values hands-on contributions, and opportunities for professional growth within a strategic sustainability programme. With a clear path to a permanent position, this role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact while working in a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Exclusive - Senior Development Manager
✨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 Zest.
✨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 Zest!
✨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 Zest, 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 Zest, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Exclusive - Senior Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Zest, 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 Zest.
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 Zest. 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 Zest. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest
✨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 Zest’s mission.
