Product development specialist

About the role

As Product Development Specialist, you will be at the forefront of developing, testing, and refining bakery products that meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and consumer satisfaction. This role is essential to our competitive positioning in the baking industry and directly contributes to our mission of delivering exceptional bakery products to our customers.

1. Conceptualise, develop, and formulate new bakery products that align with market trends, consumer preferences, and company objectives
2. Conduct comprehensive product testing, quality assurance checks, and sensory evaluations to ensure products meet established standards for taste, texture, appearance, and nutritional value
3. Ensure all product development activities comply with food safety regulations, labelling requirements, and industry best practices
4. Collaborate with production teams to scale products from laboratory trials to full-scale manufacturing operations
5. Analyse product performance data, gather consumer feedback, and make recommendations for product optimisation and improvement
6. Document all formulations, processes, and modifications in comprehensive technical specifications and standard operating procedures
7. Research and evaluate new ingredients, additives, and food technology innovations that could enhance product quality or efficiency
8. Work cross-functionally with marketing, sales, and operational teams to ensure product viability and market readiness
9. Maintain detailed records of recipe development, trial batches, and testing results for regulatory compliance and traceability

1. Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Science, Chemistry, or a related discipline
2. 2–5 years of professional experience in product development, specifically within the baking, bakery, or food manufacturing industry
3. Strong knowledge of bakery science, including ingredient functionality, fermentation processes, and formulation techniques
4. Demonstrable understanding of food safety standards, HACCP principles, and relevant food regulations and compliance requirements
5. Proficiency in sensory evaluation and statistical analysis of product testing data
6. Experience with product scaling from pilot batches to commercial production volumes
7. Excellent documentation and communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear technical reports and presentations
8. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment whilst managing independent projects and timelines
9. Problem-solving mindset with a creative approach to product innovation and improvement
10. Preferably, experience with food testing equipment, laboratory protocols, and quality control systems
11. Familiarity with cost analysis and the ability to develop products within budgetary constraints

Apply now

Join our team and make a meaningful impact on the future of our bakery operations.