Culinary Development Specialist - Care (Field & Travel Ready)

Elior Uk; Leicester; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A catering service provider in the United Kingdom is seeking a Culinary Development Specialist to innovate menus that balance taste and health. This field-based role involves collaborating with chefs and marketing teams, leading recipe development, and actively utilizing data for continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will have practical culinary experience, a keen understanding of food trends, and the ability to communicate effectively within cross-functional teams. Flexibility to travel is a must, and a company car will be provided.

Benefits

Free, tasty meals

Flexible working options

Generous holiday allowance

Paid volunteering days

Career development opportunities

Pension schemes and life assurance

Company car or car allowance

Qualifications

• Strong culinary and operational experience with a commercial mindset.
• Confidence working with menu management systems, data and cost models.
• Solid knowledge of allergen, nutrition and food legislation.
• The ability to influence, collaborate and communicate at all levels.
• A curious, proactive approach with a passion for food trends and quality.
• Organised, analytical and comfortable working independently in a field-based role.

Responsibilities

• Leading recipe and menu development across care sectors.
• Optimising ingredients, SKUs and menu margins to support commercial targets.
• Translating food trends, customer insight and site feedback into practical innovation.
• Supporting menu implementation with clear recipes and guidance.
• Working with suppliers on tastings and promotions.
• Using data to mitigate inflation and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Culinary and operational experience

Confidence with menu management systems

Knowledge of food legislation

Ability to influence and communicate

Passion for food trends

Job description

A catering service provider in the United Kingdom is seeking a Culinary Development Specialist to innovate menus that balance taste and health. This field-based role involves collaborating with chefs and marketing teams, leading recipe development, and actively utilizing data for continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will have practical culinary experience, a keen understanding of food trends, and the ability to communicate effectively within cross-functional teams. Flexibility to travel is a must, and a company car will be provided.