NPD Chef

About the Role

We have an exciting opportunity for an NPD Chef to join our team on an initial 12 month FTC and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our product range.

As part of a dynamic and collaborative environment, you will take concepts from kitchen trials to full-scale production, blending culinary expertise with the technical demands of manufacturing. Key duties include recipe preparation, supporting the Sales and Technical teams to ensure customer requirements are met, whilst maintaining consistency in product quality.

About Us

At Karimix we unlock the fusion and eclectic flavours of Asia and beyond, with a wide range of award-winning chutneys, sauces, curry pastes and marinades. Karimix is a BRC accredited food manufacturer which takes pride in using only the finest GM-free ingredients with no artificial additives. We produce a range of certified vegan and vegetarian products under our own label as well as through contract manufacturing. Karimix is part of the wider Olidor Group, this includes The Original Baker, a premium, artisan bakery in North Yorkshire and Brusco Food Group, a leading and trusted supplier of high-quality ingredients to the food industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Sales team to liaise and present innovative projects to key customers.
• Prepare high-quality product samples to showcase to customers as required
• Plan and execute New Product Development (NPD) trials and projects to introduce exciting new offerings
• Lead the creation and upscaling of Karimix products from kitchen samples to full scale production, ensuring adherence to company standards and procedures
• Develop and document clear recipe instructions to support the production processes
• Support the Production team in resolving ingredient or recipe challenges to ensure smooth transitions during production trials
• Stay ahead with market trends through market research and competitor analysis, identifying opportunities for growth
• Work closely with the technical department to develop specifications and calculate accurate product costings
• Collaborate with the Production Manager to ensure new products meet brand standards and align with market demands
• Complete and maintain all required documentation to ensure food safety compliance including HACCP
• Provide hands on support to the Production team in the factory when required

Skills and Experience

• Minimum 2 years experience as an NPD Chef or equivalent in a manufacturing environment is essential
• Proven experience of taking concept kitchen samples to full scale production
• Creative mindset and passion for innovation and product development
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan, coordinate and execute tasks efficiently
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines
• Quick learner with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and a solid understanding of process procedures
• High level of attention to detail and a commitment to quality
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and moving environment
• In depth knowledge of relevant safety and quality standards and procedures including Food Safety

Salary: Up to £40,000k per annum (depending on skills and experience)

Hours: Full Time, Monday - Friday, 8:30am – 5:30pm, initial 12 month fixed term contract

Location: Based onsite at Faversham, Kent