At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop exciting new food products from concept to launch.
- Company: Leading UK food manufacturer with a strong reputation in chilled and bakery categories.
- Benefits: 33 days annual leave, employee support programmes, and great career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Experience in food manufacturing or NPD is a plus; must have the right to work in the UK.
- Why this job: Turn your passion for food into a rewarding career in New Product Development.
- Qualifications: Ideal candidates have a degree in Food Science or related fields and a proactive attitude.
We are working with one of the UK's leading food manufacturers, a business with a formidable reputation across the chilled and bakery categories, supplying some of the biggest names on the supermarket shelf.
This is a company built on scale and ambition and it is now searching for an NPD Developer to join their division and help shape the next generation of products destined for the nation's dinner tables.
This is a genuinely exciting first step or a natural next move for someone with a passion for food and a hunger to build a career in New Product Development.
You will be immersed in the full journey from concept to launch, working alongside the NPD Manager, tasting products with chefs, meeting suppliers and watching an idea evolve into something that lands in millions of shopping baskets.
Day to day you will support the wider NPD team throughout the development process, helping to prepare customer documentation such as market data forms and submission sheets.
You will sit in on supplier visits and taste testing sessions, contribute to customer meetings and gradually build the confidence and experience to help deliver product presentations of your own.
The right candidate will bring a genuine enthusiasm for food and the wider industry along with a proactive, team spirited attitude and a real eagerness to learn.
Strong organisational skills and an eye for detail will serve you well here, as will the ability to thrive in a fast paced and dynamic environment.
A degree in Food Science, Nutrition or a related subject would be ideal, as would up to a year's experience in food manufacturing or NPD.
In return you can expect 33 days of annual leave, a refer a friend scheme and access to a confidential Employee Assistance Programme along with Grocery Aid support available 365 days a year.
This is a business that prides itself on promoting from within, so the opportunities for genuine career growth are real and plentiful.
If this sounds like the opportunity you have been waiting for, we would love to hear from you.
Send relevant CVs to (url removed) or call Nicola on (phone number removed)
Please note: We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must have the existing right to work in the UK.
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
(url removed)
NPD Developer - Concept 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 NPD Developer - Concept
✨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 NPD Developer - Concept
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.
