Oakpark is a leading producer of retail poultry, pork and bacon products for the Irish and UK markets. We have two best in class production facilities, one in Clonmel and one in Cahir, Co. Tipperary.
We are a family-owned business which operates to the highest international standards of food production.
Job Overview:
In this role, you will be instrumental to the New Product Development function, structuring and co-ordinating the process to ensure a speedy route to market for identified new or existing products. This role requires a strong understanding of food science, market trends and consumer preferences that drive new product launches that align with overall company strategy.
Key NPD Responsibilities:
Product development & implementation:
Lead the end-to-end development of new products or redesigns of existing SKUs from initial idea development to product launch.
Project Management:
Manage multiple NPD projects simultaneously ensuring timelines and budgets are met. Co-ordinating the team to meet at an appropriate frequency to ensure a speedy progress. Agree critical path with management for roll out of new products to market.
§ Raw Material & Ingredient Sourcing:
Identify and collaborate with suppliers (both existing and new) for raw materials and ingredients. Evaluate ingredient functionality and alternative options for cost efficiency and sustainability.
Packaging Development & Sourcing:
Identify and collaborate with packaging suppliers (both existing and new) to develop packaging formats that work within the production parameters of the business. Agree final keylines with suppliers. Final responsibility for signoff of artwork files pre-launch.
Production Trials:
Prepare and conduct production trials, maintaining accurate records of formulations, trial outcomes and process adjustments
Quality & Compliance:
Work closely with the quality department to ensure all new products meet regulatory requirements. Conduct sensory evaluations, nutritional analysis, and shelf-life validations to ensure any new products meet our requirements.
Market Trends & Analysis:
Monitor and analyse overall FMCG retail market to identify any trends worth implementing to internal NPD.
Customer Meetings & Internal Test Kitchens:
Present final cooked products and concepts to management and customers in a kitchen setting. Attend customer meetings as required to assist in NPD listing opportunities.
Specifications:
Complete and maintain gold standard specifications in line with customer codes of practice – This includes all specifications for new and existing products.
Other:
Undertake ad hoc projects and tasks as assigned by the Technical Manager.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person