Process Development Manager

Valeo Foods UK is seeking a proactive and experienced Process Development Lead to drive NPD/EPD delivery, process improvements, and innovation across our manufacturing site. 

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Innovation

• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver private label and branded NPD/EPD projects on time.

• Champion process control (including SPC), innovation, and cost-saving initiatives.

• Drive new technologies and continuous improvement across site operations.

Process Development & Trials

• Coordinate and implement all product trials, ensuring clear procedures and successful launches.

• Manage trial documentation (shelf life, micro, taste panels, reports, batching, BOMs, recipe handover).

• Ensure smooth factory integration of new recipes and materials, with effective handover to operations.

• Liaise with suppliers/procurement for trial ingredients and sample provision.

• Provide accurate technical data for internal specifications and support troubleshooting on site.

Project & Customer Management

• Lead project activity from concept to launch, ensuring timelines and critical paths are met.

• Build strong customer relationships, leading pre-production meetings and launch coordination.

• Communicate effectively across departments and run regular stakeholder updates.

Qualifications and knowledge

• Degree or equivalent in Food Science or related discipline or previous experience.
• Min 5 years’ experience in FMCG or similar environment, and with at least 3 years of managing teams
• HACCP Level 3 qualification
• Project management skills

Qualities and Experience

• A strong leader/influencer of people
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Great at building relationships internally and externally
• Knowledge of effective structures and team dynamics and training and development needs
• Up to date knowledge of technical advances and the changing consumer landscape.
• Passionate about helping people to be the best they can and experience in coaching and developing people
• Diligent and attention to detail focused
• Problem solving skills
• A drive to succeed
• Organized and able to both multi-task and prioritize effectively

Salary is £40,000- £50,000 dependent on experience.

What we offer you in return

• Matched pension scheme up to 10%
• Death in service
• Cycle to work scheme
• Canteen
• Retailer discount platform
• Staff discount