Head Development Chef
Do you have experience developing short shelf life, protein-based products for major grocery retailers?
Are you confident in leading and mentoring a small team while driving innovation in a fast-paced environment?
Can I take a product from concept to large-scale production while ensuring commercial viability and compliance?
MacGregor Black are partnering with a Food Manufacturing Business, on the search for a Head Development Chef. This is a Full time role based in Scunthorpe.
As Head Development Chef you will lead and manage the development of innovative, high-quality food products, ensuring they align with customer requirements and business capabilities. Oversee a small team, working closely with cross-functional departments to bring commercially successful products to market. Focus on short shelf life, protein-based products, and major grocery retail customers.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and inspire the development team, fostering creativity and excellence in new product development (NPD) and existing product development (EPD).
* Develop commercially viable, high-quality products aligned with customer briefs, market trends, and operational capabilities.
* Ensure all concepts are feasible for production and packaging through close collaboration with operations and technical teams.
* Work alongside the NPD and commercial teams to deliver on cost, quality, and nutritional targets.
* Ensure customer submission documents are completed accurately and updated based on feedback.
* Lead feasibility meetings, providing detailed documentation to ensure clear project alignment.
* Oversee the development kitchen, maintaining a well-organized and efficient environment.
* Stay ahead of food trends, consumer insights, and competitor benchmarking to drive innovation.
* Support the transition of products from concept to full-scale production, ensuring smooth factory trials.
* Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and legal regulations for short shelf life products.
* Feasibility and customer submission documents completed accurately and on time.
* Positive feedback from customers on product quality and innovation.
* Successful transition of products from concept to launch, meeting operational and financial targets.
* Effective leadership and development of the team.
What are we looking for?
* Strong background in food development with experience in short shelf life, protein, and major grocery retail.
* Proven ability to manage and develop a team.
* Strong commercial awareness and understanding of cost management.
* Excellent communication and project management skills.
* Strong knowledge of food safety, regulations, and technical requirements.
Please contact Lauren Waugh for further information
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