NPD Chef/ Development Chef
Faversham, Kent
Full-Time | Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:30pm
Up to £50,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Are you an innovative and passionate chef with experience in food manufacturing?
We’re currently recruiting on behalf of a leading, award-winning food manufacturer for an experienced NPD Chef to join their growing team in Faversham, Kent. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a respected brand that produces premium products.
About the Role:
As an NPD Chef, you will play a key role in taking new product concepts from kitchen samples to full-scale production. Working closely with Sales, Technical, and Production teams, you’ll blend culinary creativity with technical precision to deliver consistent, high-quality products that meet customer expectations.
Key Responsibilities:
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Develop and present innovative product samples for customers
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Lead NPD projects from concept through to factory scale-up
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Create clear and accurate recipe documentation
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Support the Production team during trials and upscaling
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Conduct market and competitor research to drive new ideas
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Liaise with Technical to ensure full compliance and costing accuracy
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless product launches
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Maintain all food safety documentation, including HACCP
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Provide hands-on support in the kitchen and production area when required
Requirements:
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Minimum 2 years’ experience in a similar NPD Chef or development role within food manufacturing
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Strong understanding of scaling recipes from kitchen to production
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Creative flair with a commercial mindset
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Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality standards
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Excellent communication and project management skills
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Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Why Apply?
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Work for a BRC-accredited manufacturer with a strong brand reputation
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Be part of a supportive, innovative team with exciting growth plans
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Contribute to a range of certified vegan and vegetarian products
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Competitive salary and onsite role in a vibrant food production environment
Ready to take the next step in your culinary development career?
Apply today with your CV and one of our consultants will be in touch