NPD Chef

NPD 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:

• Develop and present innovative product samples for customers
• Lead NPD projects from concept through to factory scale-up
• Create clear and accurate recipe documentation
• Support the Production team during trials and upscaling
• Conduct market and competitor research to drive new ideas
• Liaise with Technical to ensure full compliance and costing accuracy
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless product launches
• Maintain all food safety documentation, including HACCP
• Provide hands-on support in the kitchen and production area when required

Requirements:

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a similar NPD Chef or development role within food manufacturing
• Strong understanding of scaling recipes from kitchen to production
• Creative flair with a commercial mindset
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality standards
• Excellent communication and project management skills
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

Why Apply?

• Work for a BRC-accredited manufacturer with a strong brand reputation
• Be part of a supportive, innovative team with exciting growth plans
• Contribute to a range of certified vegan and vegetarian products
• 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.