New Product Development Technologist

Sofina Foods•Suffolk, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

A hands-on NPD role delivering new and improved pork and seafood products from concept to launch, supporting growth and profitability across European branded and own-label ranges. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will support the delivery of New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD) plans across the European Pork & Seafood Divisions. The role is responsible for developing, trialling, and implementing new products and product improvements from concept through to market, ensuring delivery to agreed quality, cost, and timescale standards.

Requirements

Educated to HNC / degree level (or equivalent) in a food-related or scientific discipline, or able to demonstrate relevant industry experience with a willingness to further develop qualifications.
Creative and innovative problem solver with strong commercial awareness.
Able to interpret and evaluate numerical data to support cost and margin decisions.
Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective relationships at all levels.
Proactive, forward-thinking, and well organised with strong project and time management skills.
Holds a full driving licence and is flexible to travel as required.

Responsibilities

Act as a key member of the NPD team, executing development projects within agreed parameters.
Develop, trial, and implement new products and product improvements in line with business and customer requirements.
Liaise with customers where required to ensure effective communication and alignment with customer agendas.
Work collaboratively with Operations, Business Performance, Technical, Packaging, Sales, Marketing and Category teams to deliver projects on time and to budget.
Source ingredients and cost materials to support development budgets under the direction of the line manager.
Maintain awareness of food trends, competitor products, and emerging industry technologies.
Apply strong food knowledge and product formulation expertise throughout development activities.
Ensure compliance with Sofina NPD/EPD governance and relevant customer processes.
Take a proactive approach to continuous improvement across products, processes, and ways of working.
Ensure awareness of and compliance with Health & Safety requirements across all Sofina sites visited.