Job Title: Senior NPD Technologist
Location: Swansea
Direct Reports: 1
Reporting to: Head of NPD
Are you passionate about food innovation and eager to bring exciting new products to life? White & Clayton are looking for a dynamic Senior New Product Development Technologist to join our client in Swansea. You’ll lead and support the creation of new and enhanced products, from concept to launch, ensuring alignment with customer needs, industry standards, and our company’s vision. You’ll excel in trend and competitor analysis, recipe and concept development, and cross-functional project management.
Key tasks:
Product development:
Trend Analysis - Research current food trends, emerging ingredients, and consumer preferences.
Competitor Analysis - Study existing products in the market for inspiration and to identify gaps.
Concept Development - Brainstorm ideas for new recipes or product lines that align with the brand’s goals.
Procuring new raw materials - Identify potential suppliers, and gathering cost estimates and specifications.
Recipe Development - Create & refine commercially viable recipes that meet customer and consumer needs.
Products Trials - Assist/Conduct NPD trials & launches (during absence of Implementation Technologist).
Project management:
Coordinate cross-functional teams, facilitate communication between stakeholders to manage the full lifecycle of product development projects, ensuring milestones are met in adherence to the NPD process.
* Prepare and deliver engaging customer presentations.
* Prepare samples and conduct internal product evaluations, ensuring they meet agreed quality standards before distributing to customers.
* Manage the timely distribution of samples to customers, adhering to project timelines.
* Organising & review nutritional analysis to ensure compliance with customers and FSA guidelines.
* Complete accurate sample submission forms.
* Plan and execute sensory panels/tests to evaluate product quality and consistency.
* Review and approve artwork to ensure compliance with regulatory and company standards.
Team Management:
* Deputise for NPD Manager as required.
* Manage and mentor NPD Technologist, fostering a culture of growth and collaboration.
Person Specification:
Qualifications:
* Degree in a relevant discipline (or equivalent industrial experience).
Skills and Attributes:
* Communication: Ability to clearly present ideas and collaborate effectively across departments and with external stakeholders.
* Organisational Skills: Strong capacity to manage multiple projects, prioritise tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
* Sensory & Creative Skills: Expertise in evaluating product quality and fostering innovation.
* Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to documentation, quality checks, and project management.
Behavioral Competencies:
* Ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments.
* Proactive problem-solving skills with a focus on continuous improvement.
* Strong leadership and team-building capabilities.
* Commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet or exceed customer expectations.