As the research and development manager I lead a team of food technologists to drive the NPD projects for all customers across a number of sales channels. Throughout my time with the company I have introduced numerous new processes to ensure the R&D team and the NPD process are working efficiently, resulting in significant growth for the site at which I am based. As the key driver for new products I coordinate product costings to ensure each product is profitable for the company and our customers, and liaise with major customers to develop products that suit their needs. Being part of the dynamic fresh meat industry; speed is key to delivering projects to our customer’s requirements and as such there is a large number of open projects at any one time. I currently manage a portfolio of over 50 projects with various turnaround times and due dates, ensuring all systems are set-up correctly before any new products are launched. Along side driving the new product development I also undertake cost savings projects to reduce the overall cost of manufacturing for the company, and increase our profitability.

• Assist in preparing funding proposals for industry bodies• Provide technical expertise for manufacturing team• Coordinate and undertake product costs for submission to customers• Involved in reviewing and updating product development process• Coordinates the Product Requirement Team, when commercialising new products• Provide relief for Research and Development Manager when required

• Develops new products, including specification writing, and completing customer specific submission forms• Participates or leads R&D trials and collates and analyses data from trials• Researches new packaging technologies• Researches ingredient functionality and applications• Participates in new product presentations to major customers when required• Undertakes special investigation projects as required• Communicate with suppliers, customers and internal teams at all levels

• Communicate with area supervisors to ensure product and process conform to requirements.• Ensure that product is inspected at the correct levels, conforms to specification and is safe and hygienic.• Report food safety hazards and quality non conformities to the QA Supervisor or QA Manager• Explain food safety and quality requirements to employees and assist in developing an understanding of its importance to the company• Complete department paperwork accurately and on time• Assist in developing Work Instructions and Specifications as required