Process Development Manager

Valeofoods; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food production company in the United Kingdom is seeking a proactive Process Development Lead to drive innovation and NPD/EPD delivery. The role involves leading cross-functional teams, managing product trials, and ensuring successful launches. Candidates should have a degree in Food Science, significant FMCG experience, and strong leadership skills. A competitive salary of £40,000–£50,000 is offered, along with additional benefits such as a matched pension scheme and staff discounts.

Benefits

Matched pension scheme up to 10%

Death in service

Cycle to work scheme

Canteen

Retailer discount platform

Staff discount

Qualifications

• Min 5 years’ experience in FMCG or similar environment, with at least 3 years of managing teams.
• Strong leader with up-to-date knowledge of technical advances.
• Excellent relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver NPD/EPD projects on time.
• Champion process control and cost-saving initiatives.
• Drive new technologies and continuous improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Project management

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Food Science or related discipline

HACCP Level 3 qualification

Job description

Company Description

At Valeo Foods UK, we're the creative force behind an array of beloved brands spanning indulgence, innovation, and tradition. From the iconic crunch of Kettle Crisps to the pure sweetness of Rowse Honey, and the rich heritage of Matthew Walker puddings, our portfolio reflects our commitment to quality and diversity. Our family of brands extends further, encompassing New World Foods’ Wild West flavours, the nostalgic joy of Barratt sweets, and the timeless appeal of Metcalfe Popcorn, each carrying its own unique story, flavour, and charm. Join us on a journey where passion meets flavour, crafting experiences that bring people together and delight taste buds.

Job Description

Valeo Foods UK is seeking a proactive and experienced Process Development Lead to drive NPD/EPD delivery, process improvements, and innovation across our manufacturing site.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cross‑functional teams to deliver private label and branded NPD/EPD projects on time.
• Champion process control (including SPC), innovation, and cost‑saving initiatives.
• Drive new technologies and continuous improvement across site operations.
• Coordinate and implement all product trials, ensuring clear procedures and successful launches.
• Manage trial documentation (shelf life, micro, taste panels, reports, batching, BOMs, recipe handover).
• Ensure smooth factory integration of new recipes and materials, with effective handover to operations.
• Liaise with suppliers/procurement for trial ingredients and sample provision.
• Provide accurate technical data for internal specifications and support troubleshooting on site.
• Lead project activity from concept to launch, ensuring timelines and critical paths are met.
• Build strong customer relationships, leading pre‑production meetings and launch coordination.
• Communicate effectively across departments and run regular stakeholder updates.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in Food Science or related discipline, or previous experience.
• Min 5 years’ experience in FMCG or similar environment, with at least 3 years of managing teams.
• HACCP Level 3 qualification.
• Project management skills.

Qualities & Experience

• A strong leader/influencer of people.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Great at building relationships internally and externally.
• Knowledge of effective structures and team dynamics and training and development needs.
• Up‑to‑date knowledge of technical advances and the changing consumer landscape.
• Passionate about helping people to be the best they can and experience in coaching and developing people.
• Diligent and attention to detail focused.
• Problem‑solving skills.
• A drive to succeed.
• Organized and able to both multi‑task and prioritize effectively.

Additional Information

• Salary: £40,000‑£50,000 dependent on experience.
• Matched pension scheme up to 10%.
• Death in service.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Canteen.
• Retailer discount platform.
• Staff discount.

Seniority level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Management

Industries

• Food Production

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