NPD Food Technologist

NPD Food Technologist | Ashford

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced NPD Food Technologist to join one of the world's leading premium chocolate manufacturers, renowned for collaborating with globally recognised brands and Michelin-starred chefs. This is an exciting opportunity to develop innovative chocolate and confectionery products from initial concept through to successful commercial launch.

Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality products that meet technical, regulatory, and commercial requirements while driving innovation and continuous product improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and refine recipes for a range of premium chocolate and confectionery products.
Lead product development from concept through kitchen trials, pilot trials, and full-scale factory production.
Manage product scale-up, ensuring manufacturing processes are robust, repeatable, and commercially viable.
Collaborate closely with Production, Quality, Commercial, and Procurement teams throughout the product development process.
Conduct sensory evaluations, competitor benchmarking, and product optimisation to enhance product quality and consumer appeal.
Ensure all products comply with food safety legislation, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.
Troubleshoot formulation and processing challenges to support the successful launch of new products.

Candidate Requirements

Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related discipline.
Minimum of 1 year experience in New Product Development (NPD) within the food manufacturing industry, ideally in chocolate or confectionery.
Strong understanding of chocolate processing, ingredients, and product development principles.
Experience conducting factory trials and scaling products from pilot stage to commercial production.
Excellent organisational, project management, and communication skills.
A creative, hands-on approach with a genuine passion for food innovation.

Salary

Up to £42k depending on experienceBenefits

1pm Friday finish
Casual dress
Company pension scheme
Discounted / free food
On-site parking
Sick pay
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed