Department: New Product Development Location: Andover Description Great People Work Here Are you searching for a career with bags of variety, in an environment that celebrates differences and empowers collaboration, which values individuals and will encourage you to make an impact? Do you want the freedom to explore, and the opportunities to find new ways and to innovate? If so, TwiningsOvo delivers. We're looking for people who don't just come here to get the job done, but who have a real passion for the brand and a desire to do the best job they can. In return, we offer an inspiring package of employee benefits - to show just how much we value you. This role will offer you the scope for growth and the tools to aim high. Do you want to help to shape the future of tea at Twinings? The sensory panel has been in place at Twinings for 18 months and is already becoming a crucial part of the NPD process. The Panel is responsible for projects spanning innovation and renovation, and they have been trained on a wide range of classic and rapid sensory methodologies. Alongside the specialist sensory panel, we also have an employee sensory panel which helps to support the main panel and engage the business in the sensory function. The Panel Leader has a crucial role in inspiring both panels to engage with the business and guaranteeing their ongoing training and sensory precision. 14 months fixed term, Andover (this position requires a minimum of 80% on-site presence) Key Responsibilities Lead Expert Sensory Panel in existing and developing methodologies Plan, schedule and administer all aspects of Panel work – including leading the day to day management of the sensory panel, panel training, sourcing of samples and setting up samples for testing. Manage panel performance, monitor ability of panel to deliver robust sensory data Plan and monitor panel training, personal development, panellist replacement Participate in discussions to identify the best sensory methods to meet business challenges. Master the use of our sensory data capture software – RedJade – to plan, collect and analyse sensory data. Ensure all project work is recorded, reported and ISO compliant with the Twinings process, fulfils data traceability requirements and complies with all legal requirements related to product. Ensure Twinings sensory lab is ISO Compliant. Liaise with Developers etc on project and sample logistics. Manage panel workload and flag early when deadlines cannot be met. Day to Day management of panellists (holidays, absences etc) Oversee activities of the Sensory Technician (sample prep, test prep) Build the employee panel into a community of engaged tasters who can support the wider sensory function. Regular acuity screening of the panel, employee panel, and key stakeholders Acts as a role model for Twinings' Innovation Behaviours. Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Willingness to work at least 80% of the time on-site (Andover) Familiar with a form of sensory data capture software (Fizz, Compusense, EyeQuestion, SenPaq, RedJade) Solid understanding of sensory science principles A minimum sensory science qualification of IFST Accredited - Sensory Evaluation and Sensory Techniques short course – OR 2 years equivalent industry experience in a Panel Leader role. An interest in the sensory science field and awareness of latest techniques and thinking. Group leadership and facilitation skills Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Personable and approachable Flexibility to adapt when plans change – whilst still maintain attention to detail and scientific rigor. Working knowledge of food or beverage factory production and laboratory preparation techniques. Good understanding of food safety concepts Grasp of basic statistical analysis concepts. Benefits Yearly bonus based on personal contribution and financial performance Flexible working options 25 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays and the option to buy and sell holidays Onsite Gym and Wellbeing Centre Perkbox – employee discount scheme with discounts online, in high street stores, cinema, holidays, restaurants and many more Pension scheme with your contributions matched for up to 10% of your salary Cycle to work scheme SimplyHealth Cash plan Onsite Staff shop and online staff discounts Bupa Private Medical Insurance Competitive Car Allowance Electric Car Scheme Competitive Monthly bonus scheme Development and training program with the opportunity to earn more based on increased skill level