About Us
Hello, we are Red Engine, the team behind the award-winning global brands Flight Club and Electric Shuffle. Were obsessed with disrupting the hospitality industry by creating and delivering the best possible experience - across all venues, products and brands.
Our central team covers the full spectrum of skills needed to bring each concept to life – from design to marketing, sales to interior design, people and training, to finance, gaming and HR and everything in between. We’re not just a team of people, we are dreamers, artists, rocket scientists, content curators, forward thinkers and the industry’s finest. We love what we do and are proud to be included in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.
With a total of 17 incredible venues throughout the UK, and a further 13 around the globe, we have ambitious plans and are passionate about developing new and exciting products, which means we’re always growing and looking for passionate people to join the family.
The Job
The Head of Food Innovation is a pivotal role in Red Engine, responsible for driving the creation and development of new and exciting menu items. This position involves conducting extensive market research to identify emerging food trends and guest preferences, ensuring that the menu remains fresh, appealing and on brand. The scope of this role will cover our UK and US operations so you can expect regular national and international travel. You will collaborate closely with the Regional training chef and Training team to test and refine recipes, maintaining high standards of quality and consistency. Additionally, you will manage cost and pricing strategies to ensure financial viability while sourcing high-quality ingredients. By leading the culinary experience, the Head of Food Innovation fosters a culture of creativity and excellence, ultimately enhancing the dining experience and motivates and inspires the business to new and higher levels of food excellence.
Product Development
Key responsibilities will include:
* Lead the design of new menu development and ensure that the food proposition is aligned to guest profiles (Classic, Brunch, Events & Bar).
* Oversee the development and launch of new food products in line with brand standards culminating in the successful launch of new menus and dishes across the estate.
* Drive culinary innovation by analysing market trends and consumer preferences to identify new opportunities in line with brand standards.
* Analyse food dish performance using guest insight and share key findings with the leadership team at quarterly intervals.
* Ensure dish margins are achieved whilst maintaining quality.
* Ensure products meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
* Ensure all food tech information is up to date and compliant with food safety standards.
* Work closely with the operations admin assistant to ensure the allergy matrix is always up to date.
Project Management
* Manage food innovation projects from concept to commercialisation.
* Ensure critical paths are kept on track and all projects are delivered on time and on budget.
* Coordinate with suppliers and partners to ensure timely delivery of projects.
* Monitor project budgets and timelines to ensure efficiency.
* Collaborate with Procurement and Ops teams to ensure the best quality products are available in line with costs.
Team Management
* Collaborate with other departments to align food innovation with overall business goals.
* Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to the business.
* Working with the Regional operations chef, train new products and menu dishes to the kitchen team across the business.
* Organise and deliver cook offs and present dishes clearly and accurately.
* Have an intimate understanding of site operational capabilities.
Quality Assurance
* Implement quality control measures to maintain high standards.
* Conduct regular reviews and audits of food products and processes.
* Address any issues related to food safety and quality promptly.
To Be Successful In This Role, Youll
* Have extensive experience in food product development and innovation, preferably in a leadership position.
* Be persuasive at leadership level with supporting commercial information where needed.
* Strong communication and collaboration skills.
* Excellent project management and organisational abilities.
* Strong leadership and team management skills.
* Creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
* Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality standards.
* Extensive professional experience in the food service and/or restaurant industry at a senior level.
* First-class culinary skill and capability.
* Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
* Strong listening and influencing skills with proven effectiveness in successfully leading work streams and project teams.
* Proven ability to manage projects on time, on budget and to measurable outcomes.
* Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, as well as the ability to interact with and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization and with different cultures.
* Ability to work autonomously and to prioritise high volumes of work.
* High level of computer literacy.
What Youll Get
* Competitive pay.
* Annual bonus.
* 33 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays.
* Fusion working (our team are regularly in our venues, working collaboratively in our bright offices in Angel, or focusing on individual projects with work from home Thursdays).
* Staff discount in all venues (50% off Sunday, Monday, 25% off Tuesday – Saturday, and free game hire).
* Private healthcare.
* Regular team socials and weekly lunch in venue.
* Monthly learning and development classes, quarterly teambuilding events.
* Summer and Christmas socials.
* Help @ hand 24/7 health support.
* Free access to therapy, nutritionists, and physiotherapists.
* Weekly lunch in venue.
Here at Red Engine, we believe our success begins and ends with our people. We are committed to a diverse culture where all our team feel respected and included. We acknowledge the power that a diverse set of beliefs and perspectives can bring, and that a variety of voices strengthens our team, enhances creativity, and drives innovation. We welcome applications from candidates of all identities, including individuals of different races, ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations. If youre passionate about contributing to a culture of inclusion and collaboration, please apply.
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