Application Specialist - Bread Development

This role works closely with the technical application and commercial teams, as well as other departments, to deliver projects that exceed customer expectations following the British Bakels stage & gate process.

Key focuses include:

• Driving product, process, efficiency, and cost improvements to enhance sales through new product launches.
• Acting as a point of contact for Bakels sister companies to support local bread development teams.
• Liaising with key suppliers to bring new innovations to market.

Key Areas of Responsibility

(This list is not exhaustive, and the job description may be subject to change, in consultation with the post holder, in response to new circumstances)

• Deliver product development projects in line with the stage & gate process.
• Increase technical expertise to deliver solutions to customer requests, including:
• Experience developing/formulating with enzymes and emulsifiers.
• Develop and maintain links with key ingredient suppliers to stay up to date with innovations.
• Collaborate with key suppliers and Group Purchasing to source and investigate new ingredient technologies.
• Identify product gaps and develop products/technology to suit.
• Ensure accurate data is used for launches and projects are delivered 'right first time'.
• Prioritise projects to deliver the most valuable outcomes.
• Work as part of cross-functional teams to investigate customer complaints or product issues.
• Represent Bakels NPD to key customers and suppliers.
• Submit accurate product costings and collaborate with Quality and Production to ensure successful launches.
• Work collaboratively with the wider H&S team to improve focus on Health & Safety.

Person Specification

The successful candidate will:

• Builds strong, collaborative cross-functional relationships with accountability across teams, customers, and suppliers.
• Adapts communication styles to suit stakeholders; encourages trust and high performance.
• Action-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset and problem-solving approach.
• Enjoys challenges and actively seeks to broaden knowledge and skills.
• Plans, prioritises, and prepares effectively to deliver results.

Key Competences

• A Food Science-related degree (Essential)
• Approximately five years of baking industry experience (Essential)
• Competence in formulating with fermented products (Essential)
• Demonstrable project management competence (Essential)
• Computer and system literacy (Essential)
• Strong presentation skills and ability to convey messaging clearly (Essential)