Shape the future of bakery innovation from concept to launch.

We’re looking for an Innovation Manager with a passion for early-stage product creation, technology advancement, and customer-focused development. In this role, you’ll combine deep bakery knowledge with creative problem-solving to deliver new products that set the standard in the market. You’ll work closely with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams, guiding projects from initial idea through to full-scale production. Based at a brand-new, state-of-the-art site, you’ll have the tools, facilities, and backing to bring your vision to life. If you thrive on innovation, enjoy blending technical expertise with strategic thinking, and want to play a key role in shaping future product platforms, this is your opportunity.

‍

You will be responsible for, but not limited to:

New Technology Development

• Supporting the creation and delivery of new product platforms through scientific and technological advancements
• Collaborating with Supply, Engineering, and Centre of Excellence teams on process and facility design
• Supporting commissioning and qualification of new lines and facilities

Category Technical Leadership

• Acting as the category technical lead, providing bakery expertise and ingredient knowledge to internal teams
• Staying ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies, applying these to projects
• Leveraging supplier innovation while ensuring opportunities to own IP from the outset
• Coaching and upskilling R&D teams

Customer NPD Delivery

• Acting as the voice of the customer, aligning product development with their innovation strategies
• Planning and delivering NPD projects from concept to launch, ensuring feasibility and meeting deadlines
• Managing commercialization from sample to factory trials and final approval
• Completing all relevant documentation to support NPD delivery
• Sourcing new raw materials, working with Procurement to ensure cost, lead time, and food safety requirements are met
• Presenting new product concepts internally and externally

‍

What’s required?

Essential:

• Significant NPD experience within value-added bakery
• Proven track record delivering projects from concept to launch
• Strong technical bakery knowledge and ingredient understanding
• Experience in both customer-facing and technical leadership roles

Desirable:

• Degree (or equivalent) in Food Science, Culinary Arts, or related discipline
• Experience in R&D technical leadership
• Knowledge of IP considerations in product innovation

What’s in it for you?

• Early-stage innovation focus with end-to-end ownership
• Mix of hands-on NPD and high-level technical leadership
• Customer engagement with major industry players
• Great salary and package
• Opportunity to work at a brand-new, state-of-the-art site

‍

Do you think you fit the criteria?‍

‍Want to find out more about the role?

‍‍(ID 205)