NPD / Development Chef – Food Business Incubator Aberdeen – Site Based Permanent – Full Time Excellent Salary and Benefits Are you ready to be part of a ground-breaking initiative transforming Scotland’s £2.4bn food and drink sector? The £27 million innovation hub opening in 2025 at SRUC’s Craibstone campus near Aberdeen, is set to drive growth, sustainability, and cutting-edge advancements in manufacturing and production. This pioneering facility will support start-ups and established businesses, providing access to world-class resources, including food-safe manufacturing spaces, pilot plants, commercial demonstration kitchens, and collaboration areas. It will foster new product development, scale-up production, and connect businesses to global market insights. The Role As the NPD Chef, you will manage the NPD and demonstration kitchens, ensuring compliance with all health, safety, and food hygiene regulations. You will support businesses with product development, feasibility, and commercialisation, offering expert advice on everything from recipe formulation to scaling up for production. Key Responsibilities Kitchen Management & Compliance Oversee the day-to-day operation of the NPD kitchen. Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and food hygiene procedures. Maintain accurate records and documentation for NPD and demonstration kitchens. Product Development & Commercial Support Provide expert guidance to tenants and customers on: New product development Product feasibility and recipe formulation Nutritional content and allergen management Commercial scale-up and costing Stay up to date with market trends to ensure businesses have access to the latest industry insights. Essential Skills & Experience The successful candidate will typically be an experienced senior chef in a commercial or food manufacturing environment. They will also need to be in possession of an Advanced HACCP certification (NEBOSH preferred). Experience & Knowledge Strong background in new product development (NPD). Advanced culinary skills with experience in transferring development products to a production environment. Knowledge of food manufacturing processes, ingredients, and commercial feasibility. Proven ability to develop recipes and deliver professional customer presentations. Personal Attributes A team player, able to build strong relationships with stakeholders. Flexible and able to work independently in a small but fast-moving organisation. Energetic, motivated, and passionate about food innovation. Strong problem-solving skills, able to anticipate and navigate challenges effectively. High integrity and professionalism, with a commitment to good governance. Ability to manage projects, achieve milestones, and drive results. A strong cultural fit with a commitment to innovation and excellence. For more information or to discuss this role further please contact Laura Haig, ZedTalent - (url removed)