Overview:The role acts as theTechologist interface between Quality,Operations,Engineering,R&D, Marketing and Purchasing departments.Responsibilities:PRODUCT AND PROCESS SUPPORT TO OPERATIONSAll points below refer primarily to the bakery department and may link to other parts of the processBeing the technologist expert on the operations teamEstablish close working relationships with the operations team to ensure product quality and optimise factory outputBe an active member at the daily huddles, line walks and other necessary meetingsDevelop an in depth knowledge of all manufacturing processes on the Naas site and use this to provide technical solutions for the processes to facilitate the goal of zero waste and zero defectsProvide the manufacturing team with information on equipment performance e.g. standard deviation measurements, action plans for problem products with high waste levels.Own and control all required documentation for process settings and ensure all is compliant and up to date for audits etc.Customer Complaints – The production of quality products is essential to the retention of customer loyalty and future profitability. Need to ensure in-house processes and procedures guarantee that product is produced to specificationPlant BRC Score – BRC accreditation is essential to ensure that the Business can continue to supply products to customers. Target BRC score for 2015 is 'A* unannounced'SUPPORT THE BUSINESS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AGENDA AND DRIVE THE R&D (NPD AND EPD) AGENDA AT OPERATIONAL LEVELLeading and executing the introduction of product and process development trials and related activities in a controlled fashion to the operations department. This requires due consideration for the equipment, process and operational limitations.Supporting the technical agenda from product concept right through to first productionSupport the business in the development of branded and own label pizza basesEnsure all process changes and innovations are signed off with the site quality team and HACCP teamWork closely with Operations, Engineering, Purchasing and Marketing during the introduction of new products, ingredients or processesEnsure trials of new equipment / materials are completed within the site Food Safety guidelinesParticipate in product development teams with the goal to ensure that new products are introduced to operations which are cost effective and can be produced in an efficient mannerRAW MATERIAL SPECIFICATION MANAGEMENT FOR OPERATIONS.Ensure all raw materials are designed and delivered in a condition suitable for processingControl raw material parameters and manage product specificationsVALUE ANALYSIS / VALUE ENGINEERING AS REQURIED BY THE PURCHASING STRATEGYWork with suppliers on existing and new raw material agendas (NPD, VA/VE agendas, non conforming product)OTHER.A proactive approach to Health and SafetyThe candidate will work successfully with:Internally: Operation's Units (Bakery, Packing and Packing), R&D, Marketing, Procurement, Engineering and QualityExternally: Raw Material and Equipment Suppliers and CustomersQualifications:EssentialBe a problem solverHave very good interpersonal skills – proven ability to work effectively on a team and with other departmentsStriving constantly to raise the standards in the manufacturing process and in product qualityHave the ability to identify and foresee potential problems from an operations and quality perspective, to identify solutions and implement in a timely mannerStrong communication skills – have an ability to lead a presentation.Proven ability to combine hands-on production knowledge with theoretical knowledge and expertiseHave project management, planning and organizational skillsWell developed analytical, numerical and computer skillsCost awareness / Uses resources effectivelyThe role will require flexibility on a weekly basis to ensure that any production issues can be addressedPositively influence people from all departmentsPC / SAP skillsContinuous Improvement mind-setExperience in a food manufacturing environment preferably in a bakery technology roleDegree or equivalent in Food Science or TechnologyExposure to and knowledge of a high speed production and processing environment solving technical issuesExposure to NPD in an food manufacturing environmentEnjoy working with foodBRC standards and customer code of practice