Zest

We are partnering with a leading global food ingredients manufacturer to recruit a Commercial Finance Business Partner. This is a key role within the UK&I commercial team, offering significant exposure to senior commercial stakeholders and the opportunity to directly influence business performance and strategy. Reporting to the Head of FP&A and Business Partnering, the successful candidate will lead commercial finance business partnering-providing insight, challenge, and support to drive profitable growth. The Role This position sits at the heart of the commercial function, acting as a trusted advisor to Sales and Commercial leadership. You will play a critical role in shaping decision-making through robust financial insight, effective planning, and strong governance. Key responsibilities include: -Acting as the finance lead to the Commercial team, influencing and challenging decisions to drive profitable growth -Leading the commercial finance input into forecasting, budgeting, and the monthly performance cycle -Delivering clear, actionable insight on revenue, margin, pricing, and portfolio performance -Owning pricing governance, including the development and maintenance of pricing models and frameworks -Supporting customer negotiations through scenario planning and financial analysis -Developing customer and product profitability analysis, identifying risks and opportunities to improve margin -Partnering with R&D and Commercial teams on new product development (NPD) and innovation business cases -Ensuring robust governance, tracking, and delivery of NPD initiatives -Driving continuous improvement across commercial finance processes, tools, and reporting We are looking for a commercially minded finance professional with strong business partnering experience and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. Key requirements: -Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) -Proven experience in commercial finance and business partnering roles, ideally from a food manufacturing background. -Strong analytical and data management skills, with advanced Excel capability -Experience with pricing, costing models, and profitability analysis -Familiarity with BI systems and tools -Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate data into clear commercial insight -Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a track record of driving improvements -Experience working with product development or R&D functions is advantageous This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established, globally recognised organisation in a highly visible and impactful role. You will have the chance to shape commercial performance, influence key decisions, and contribute to ongoing growth and innovation. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

I am looking for hands on Process Technologist who is looking to join a booming and growing business. This role will be fast paced, working across multiple top retailers and offers a large variety of products. You will be heading up the process team and working closely with NPD to deliver products to launch efficiently. As Senior Process Technologist you will provide a site-based resource within the development department to own and manage NPD, EPD projects for the site for the customer base from process handover to launch. From site approval you will head up projects / process handover and execution of successful scale up of products into the factory to meet both the customer and businesses expectations, whilst satisfying all relevant technical and operational criteria in line with a very high critical path. Thus, delivering a timely and faultless successful launch, supported by the relevant site functions. A varied position which requires an individual with previous process experience who is searching for that career defining opportunity. You will need a min of 3 years process exp and a strong work ethic. Please get in touch (url removed) / (phone number removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

A skilled food development expert with a passion for crafting exceptional products and transforming ideas into high-quality, commercially successful innovations will find an exclusive opportunity with our client in Buckinghamshire. They are seeking a Senior Development Technologist to join their team and contribute to the creation of standout, market-ready products. This is a hands-on role for an experienced NPD professional within food manufacturing-someone who can blend creativity with commercial awareness in a fast-paced production environment. You will need a minimum of 2 years experience in NPD in UK food manufacturing. Experience working directly with customers would be a significant advantage, as you'll contribute to shaping standout products tailored to their needs. A full UK driving licence is essential. As part of this progressive and highly collaborative business, you'll join a close-knit team where your insight, vision and technical expertise will have genuine impact. With a competitive salary of circa 45,000, this is a rare chance to elevate your career and play a key role in delivering exceptional new product launches. If you're ready to advance your career with a company that values innovation and excellence, contact Nicola on (phone number removed) for a confidential discussion or email your updated CV to (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are partnering with an ambitious, fast-growing functional food challenger brand within the FMCG sector, seeking a highly organised and technically skilled Product Development Manager to take full ownership of its health food product portfolio. This is a hands-on, delivery-led role focused on driving product enhancements, managing packaging and artwork changes whilst ensuring consistently high standards of quality and compliance across multiple markets. You will work closely with Operations, Marketing and external partners to deliver smooth product updates, oversee NPD timelines and ensure products remain compliant, commercially viable and aligned with brand standards. The ideal candidate will have experience in food or FMCG product development, a strong understanding of labelling and regulatory requirements and excellent attention to detail. You will be confident managing quality processes, comfortable liaising with suppliers and able to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. In return, the business offers a flexible hybrid working model with adaptable hours and 1 day a week onsite working, supporting a strong work-life balance. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a high-performing, collaborative team within a rapidly growing business in the wellness space, with a clear ambition to become a standout brand in its category where you can make a genuine impact. Experience with challenger brands would be advantageous. Please note: sponsorship is not available for this role. To discuss further, please contact Danielle Bailey for a confidential conversation on (phone number removed) or (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are currently partnering with a leading food manufacturer to recruit a Product Developer to join their fast-paced and innovative NPD team. This is an excellent opportunity for a driven individual to play a key role in delivering new product concepts from initial brief through to successful launch. Working closely with internal teams, you will support the end-to-end product development process, including concept creation, sample development, packaging input and factory trials. You will be responsible for managing projects through each stage, ensuring products meet customer expectations. The role will also involve preparing product documentation and presentations, supporting customer meetings and collaborating with technical, commercial and production teams to ensure smooth project delivery. You will play an active role in pre-production and launch activities, as well as post-launch reviews, while contributing to continuous improvement across processes and ways of working. This position requires someone who can manage multiple priorities, communicate effectively across departments and thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Food and previous experience within a food manufacturing NPD or product development role. Strong organisational and project management skills are essential, along with a good understanding of food safety standards and retailer requirements. In return, our client offers a collaborative working environment, strong career development opportunities, and the chance to be part of a team focused on delivering high-quality, innovative products. Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this role. If you would like to arrange a confidential conversation please contact Danielle Bailey on (phone number removed) or (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Kick-start your career in the food industry with an exciting opportunity for a driven and ambitious graduate to join a highly successful and well-respected business based in Greater Manchester. Renowned for their strong reputation, collaborative culture and commitment to developing talent, this company offers an excellent environment for graduates. Looking to build a long-term career ? The role offers a competitive salary of 27,000- 29,000 alongside a flexible hybrid working pattern, with three days working from home and two days on site. It is a predominantly computer-based position, ideal for someone who enjoys working with systems, managing digital workflows and coordinating projects in a fast-paced environment. This opportunity is ideally suited to a food graduate who has completed a placement year within industry and is now looking to apply their knowledge. You will need to be highly computer literate, confident using different systems and comfortable working with detailed digital processes. In this role, you will take ownership of the artwork process across your assigned projects, managing everything from initial design and artwork creation through to reprographics, print and final delivery.You will also manage external reprographic agencies, oversee approvals, track artwork files through to print and support reporting, forecasting and capacity planning activities. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. You should be a confident communicator who enjoys working collaboratively and thrives in a fast-paced environment. A proactive mindset, enthusiasm for learning, and a genuine passion for food and product development will be key to success in this role. To apply, please contact Nicola on (phone number removed) or email your updated CV to (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Are you an experienced NPD professional with a passion for innovation and a talent for bringing products to life? We're partnering with a well-established business in Buckinghamshire that is looking to appoint a confident and commercially aware NPD Manager to join their growing team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a proven NPD leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys working closely with major retailers to deliver successful product launches. The Role As NPD Manager, you will take ownership of the end-to-end product development process - from concept through to launch - ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standard. You'll work cross-functionally with internal teams and act as a key point of contact for retail customers, presenting ideas and managing expectations throughout the development cycle. Key Responsibilities: Lead and manage multiple NPD projects from concept to launch Drive innovation aligned with customer and market trends Build and maintain strong relationships with retail customers Present concepts and product updates confidently to external stakeholders Collaborate cross-functionally across technical, commercial, and operations teams Ensure project timelines, budgets, and critical paths are effectively managed About You: Established NPD experience within a relevant FMCG or manufacturing environment Strong project management capability with proven delivery of successful launches Confident in customer-facing situations, ideally with retailer exposure Commercially astute with an innovation-focused mindset Highly organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities What's on Offer: Hybrid working (typically 2 days from home, depending on business needs) A collaborative and forward-thinking culture The opportunity to make a real impact within an innovation-led business If you're looking for a role where you can combine creativity, customer engagement, and structured project delivery - we'd love to hear from you. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

You could be an Operations Manager, Head of Operations, Head of Manufacturing or Factory Manager with the desire to step into Site Directorship/Site General Manager role. This role demands the knowledge and experience of a leader who knows how to run complex and process driven environments. We are currently partnering with a well-established food manufacturer, who are looking for an Operations Manager to join the team with a pathway into senior management in the near future. You will be responsible for effectively driving all operational activities, ensuring high standards, food safety and cost effective initiatives are adhered to, promoting a culture of Continuous Improvement and working cross functionally across all departments. You will need to operate as a leader, mentor and true driver of development throughout the site, managing operational budget and controlling costs. To be successful in this role, you will need to have experience at senior leadership level and managing complex processed sites. You will need to be naturally pragmatic with an ability to manage both upwards to exec level and downwards throughout all site departments. If you feel you match the above criteria and wish to discuss in further detail/apply, please contact Sam on (phone number removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Are you ready to take the lead in crafting innovative, delicious products for some of the UK's top retailers and brands? We're on the hunt for a NPD Technologist to join our client's forward-thinking team, where your expertise will drive ground-breaking product innovation. This is a customer-facing role that blends creativity, technical skill, and strategic insight. You'll be the linchpin between customer collaboration and the creation of exceptional products, helping shape the future of the food industry. What you'll be doing: Leading end-to-end product development projects, from concept to commercialization. Collaborating with customers to understand their needs and deliver tailored, innovative solutions. Staying ahead of the curve by researching and interpreting market trends. Overseeing trials and ensuring products meet the highest quality and regulatory standards. Delivering polished proposals and presentations to customers and internal teams. What we're looking for: Proven experience in a food manufacturing or NPD environment. A passion for innovation, with a track record of developing standout products. Exceptional communication skills and confidence in customer-facing interactions. A proactive, solution-focused mindset with excellent project management abilities. Why join us? Be at the forefront of food innovation, working on exciting projects for leading retailers and brands. Collaborate with a talented, passionate team in a fast-paced environment. Make your mark on products that delight customers and shape industry trends. If you're a driven, creative professional with a love for food and innovation, this is your chance to step into a senior role with a company where your ideas will shine. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Purchasing Manager / Senior Purchasing Manager - Ingredients / Commodities This is an exciting opportunity to join the purchasing team of a global ingredients business. Reporting to the Supply Chain Director, this is a high-impact role offering both strategic responsibility and team leadership within a well-established function. The business operates at scale, sourcing large volumes of raw materials from global markets to support a diverse food customer base. Known for its quality and strong supplier partnerships, it offers a collaborative environment with clear opportunities for growth and development. The Role: You will take ownership of the procurement of key raw materials on a global basis, alongside selected indirect categories. Leading a team of three, you'll play a central role in shaping sourcing strategy, maintaining strong supplier relationships, and ensuring continuity of supply in a dynamic market. This role offers a balance of strategic input and operational delivery, with real visibility across the business. Key Responsibilities -Manage procurement of high-volume raw materials from global suppliers -Lead and develop a team of three procurement professionals -Build and maintain strong, long-term supplier relationships -Drive cost optimisation, risk management, and supply continuity -Support and implement best practice procurement processes -Work cross functionally with internal stakeholders across supply chain, technical, and commercial teams About You -Minimum 10 years' procurement experience within large, complex organisations -Strong track record managing significant spend and supplier bases -Experience in ingredients, commodities, or food-related procurement this is ESSENTIAL and only candidates with this experience will be considered -Previous team management or leadership experience -Commercially aware, with the ability to balance strategy and delivery -Strategic capability. -Confident communicator, able to influence and build credibility across the business This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a purchasing role within a global organisation that values its people. You'll have the autonomy to make an impact, lead a capable team, and further develop your career in a supportive and forward-thinking environment. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Zest are on the hunt for a Multi-skilled Shift Engineer to join a well-established food manufacturer in Derbyshire. Responsibilities: - Planned and reactive maintenance on a range of mechanical and electrical systems to reduce downtime and keep production running smoothly. - Troubleshoot and resolve faults on food processing and packaging equipment - Contribute to continuous improvement projects. - Work in line with food safety standards and site health and safety procedures. Requirements: - Level 3 engineering qualification (Desirable) - RTW in UK Please reach out to Josh Manby for further information - (phone number removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Join Zest - where high performance meets high reward. At Zest, we're not your average recruitment business. We're a specialist food and drink manufacturing recruitment company with a reputation for energy, pace, and genuinely brilliant people. Our team is ambitious, supportive, and driven - and we're growing. We're looking for a Recruitment Consultant who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves building relationships, and wants to be part of a business where hard work is recognised and rewarded. What you'll be doing: Managing the full recruitment lifecycle within the food & drink manufacturing sector Building and nurturing strong client and candidate relationships Developing new business opportunities while growing existing accounts Sourcing top talent through a variety of channels Delivering a high-quality, consultative service to clients and candidates Working collaboratively with a high-performing, supportive team What we're looking for: Experience in recruitment or a strong background in sales/customer-facing roles Driven, resilient, and motivated to succeed Excellent communication and relationship-building skills A proactive, solutions-focused mindset Someone who thrives in a high-energy, fast-paced environment What you'll get in return: Competitive base salary with uncapped bonus potential Hybrid working, private healthcare & gym membership Clear and achievable career progression pathway - three of our Directors started at Resourcer level A supportive, high-retention team culture Regular team days, incentives, and rewards - recent Summer incentive included a trip to Ibiza, and Christmas parties in London Ongoing training and development Why Zest? We've built a culture where people genuinely enjoy coming to work. We work hard, celebrate success, and support each other every step of the way. If you're ambitious and want to be part of something exciting, Zest is the place to be. Ready to take the next step? Email Lucy on (url removed) with your application As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are recruiting for a Technical Manager / Technologist to join a well-established and growing business within the fresh produce sector. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is looking to take ownership of a product category and work closely with both customers and suppliers in a fast-paced, commercially driven environment. The Role You will be responsible for managing the technical function across a defined range of products and customer accounts, ensuring that all quality, safety, and compliance standards are consistently met. Working closely with the supply chain, you will play a key role in maintaining product excellence, supporting supplier performance, and building strong customer relationships. Key Responsibilities Manage the technical function across assigned products and customer accounts Ensure all customer specifications, compliance standards, and requirements are met Act as a key technical contact for customers, building strong working relationships Work closely with suppliers to ensure product quality and consistency Monitor and drive performance against quality and service KPIs Support continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain Travel within the UK and internationally as required About You Previous experience in a Technical / Technologist role within fresh produce is desirable but not essential Strong understanding of retailer/customer requirements and product specifications Confident communicator with the ability to influence and build relationships Highly organised with excellent attention to detail Proactive and solutions-focused approach Able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment What's on Offer Hybrid working (Monday-Friday) Opportunity to join a growing and supportive business Exposure to both UK and international supply chains A role offering autonomy and real impact As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

At Zest, we don't just "do" recruitment - we transform careers and strengthen teams in one of the UK's most vital industries: Food Manufacturing. We've spent over 20 years building the most trusted recruitment brand in the sector, and now, we're looking for a Resourcer who's hungry to be the best. This is not a back-office role. You'll be on the frontlines - hunting, headhunting, and building relationships with the industry's most in-demand engineering professionals. What you'll do - Build and nurture relationships with high-performing candidates in the food industry - Search across job boards, LinkedIn, internal CRM, referrals and social platforms to find the best talent - Conduct detailed phone and video interviews, qualifying candidates for live roles - Partner with a successful team to help fill high-priority vacancies - Support candidates throughout the process - coaching for interviews, negotiating offers, and guiding through resignations - Record candidate insights with precision in our CRM, helping us maintain our legendary reputation for detail and quality Why this role is a launchpad? - 250 per placement on your director's desk - with potential to increase as you grow - Industry-leading training and mentoring - we've developed some of the UK's best recruiters in-house - After 12 months, you'll be ready to step up into a Consultant role - managing your own clients and deals - Be part of a team that celebrates success: past summer parties in Ibiza, Friday drinks, quarterly lunch clubs, and much more - Hybrid working, private healthcare, pension, and gym membership - Work in our bright, open-plan Stamford HQ, overlooking the meadows - voted one of the happiest places to live in the UK What are we looking for? - A natural people-person: you love asking questions, listening, and learning about others - Grit, determination, and a work ethic to match - recruitment isn't easy, but it's worth it and the rewards huge - Excellent communication skills on the phone, on email, and face-to-face - Someone who thrives in a high-performance environment and wants to fast-track their career - It would be a bonus if you've worked in retail, customer service, sales or call centres - but attitude is everything Zest's Promise We'll train you, support you, challenge you, and celebrate you. You'll be joining a business with a clear mission to be the best recruitment company you'll ever work with or for. And we're not slowing down. Ready to build a brilliant career and change people's lives? Apply now, or reach out confidentially to our internal recruitment team at (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are currently supporting a premium chilled food manufacturer in their search for a Senior Specifications Technologist, partnering closely with them to identify the right talent for this key position within their business. The role offers a hybrid working pattern, with three days on-site and two days working from home. You'll be part of a collaborative and supportive team environment, working alongside a great group of people who are passionate about what they do. There is a real opportunity here to work with one of the best in the industry and further develop your career within a leading organisation. We are looking to speak with candidates who genuinely enjoy writing specifications and take pride in producing accurate, detailed work. To be considered, you will need a minimum of two years' experience in specification writing, along with hands-on experience working with retail specifications. If you're looking to be part of a high-performing team and take the next step in your career, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion, please contact Nicola Richardson on (phone number removed) or send your CV to (url removed) . As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We're e recruiting on behalf of a well-established and growing client, who are seeking a Technical Assistant to join their expanding Technical Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking business with a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Due to continued business growth, our client is looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Technical Assistant to bolster their technical function. You will play a key role in ensuring product compliance, maintaining high technical standards, and supporting both internal teams and customers. Key Responsibilities -Manage and maintain the customer database, ensuring all information is accurate and up to date. -Sign off specifications and artwork, ensuring compliance with both customer and legislative requirements. -Act as a key liaison between cross-functional teams including NPD, Technical, and Commercial. -Manage all customer technical requirements and ensure effective communication across departments. -Ensure all product specifications are current, accurate, and compliant with both BRC and customer standards. -Support the QA and Technical teams to ensure continuous compliance and product quality. -Assist in maintaining an audit-ready site and ensure compliance with BRC and retailer standards. Requirements: -Previous experience in a technical role within the food or manufacturing industry is essential. -Strong understanding of BRC standards and retailer requirements. -Excellent communication skills with the ability to liaise effectively across departments. -Highly organised, driven, and forward-thinking with great attention to detail. -Confident working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple priorities. Salary - 15,000 - 20,000 Part time role! The ideal candidate will be working in a similar position within food production. If you feel this exceptional opportunity is for you and you meet the above criteria, then click apply and send us an updated copy of your CV - alternatively you can send through your C.V to (url removed) or phone (phone number removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Zest are on the hunt for a Multi-skilled Shift Engineer to join a well-established food manufacturer in Derbyshire. Responsibilities: - Planned and reactive maintenance on a range of mechanical and electrical systems to reduce downtime and keep production running smoothly. - Troubleshoot and resolve faults on food processing and packaging equipment - Contribute to continuous improvement projects. - Work in line with food safety standards and site health and safety procedures. Requirements: - Level 3 engineering qualification (Desirable) - RTW in UK Please reach out to Josh Manby for further information - (phone number removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Are you skilled at creating detailed and accurate food product specifications? Looking to advance your career with a leading food manufacturer? If so, we have an excellent opportunity for you! We are seeking a Specifications Technologist to join a thriving technical team in Derbyshire. In this key role, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining product specifications for B2B customers. Your expertise will ensure compliance with food safety regulations and meet customer expectations, playing a vital part in maintaining the company's reputation for excellence. To excel in this role, you'll need previous experience in writing B2B or retail specifications within the food industry. Attention to detail, a thorough understanding of industry standards and the ability to collaborate with internal teams like NPD, technical and commercial are essential. In return, you'll enjoy a competitive salary of up to 35,000, along with the flexibility to work from home two days a week. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with an industry-leading manufacturer and be part of a supportive and successful team. If you're ready to advance in your career, send your updated CV to Nicola at (url removed) or call (phone number removed) for further information. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Are you ready to take the lead in crafting innovative, delicious products for some of the UK's top retailers and brands? We're on the hunt for a NPD Technologist to join our client's forward-thinking team, where your expertise will drive ground-breaking product innovation. This is a customer-facing role that blends creativity, technical skill, and strategic insight. You'll be the linchpin between customer collaboration and the creation of exceptional products, helping shape the future of the food industry. What you'll be doing: Leading end-to-end product development projects, from concept to commercialization. Collaborating with customers to understand their needs and deliver tailored, innovative solutions. Staying ahead of the curve by researching and interpreting market trends. Overseeing trials and ensuring products meet the highest quality and regulatory standards. Delivering polished proposals and presentations to customers and internal teams. What we're looking for: Proven experience in a food manufacturing or NPD environment. A passion for innovation, with a track record of developing standout products. Exceptional communication skills and confidence in customer-facing interactions. A proactive, solution-focused mindset with excellent project management abilities. Why join us? Be at the forefront of food innovation, working on exciting projects for leading retailers and brands. Collaborate with a talented, passionate team in a fast-paced environment. Make your mark on products that delight customers and shape industry trends. If you're a driven, creative professional with a love for food and innovation, this is your chance to step into a senior role with a company where your ideas will shine. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Senior Brand Manager - 12-Month FTC Location: Cambridgeshire (Hybrid Working - minimum 3 days on-site) Contract Type: 12-Month Fixed Term Contract Sector: FMCG / Food & Beverage Are you a highly collaborative Senior Brand Manager with a passion for innovation, consumer-centricity, and a record of full accountability of building a strong innovation pipeline? A unique opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Brand Manager to join this manufacturing business on a 12-month FTC basis. It offers the chance to re-launch a key product range, drive growth in the protein drinks segment, and build an innovation pipeline aligned with the dynamic "on-the-go" breakfast occasion. You will be responsible for delivering the full brand plan - from strategy to execution - ensuring strong brand performance, effective budget control, and cross-functional alignment across the business. Key Responsibilities: - Lead the re-launch and execution of a breakfast drinks brand, building a robust 'on the go' innovation pipeline. - Drive growth in the protein drinks category through targeted marketing plans, consumer-led campaigns, and innovation. - Build a 24-month innovation pipeline grounded in insight and category trends, working with NPD and cross-functional teams from concept to launch. - Design, implement, and measure a 12-18-month brand plan to achieve KPIs and brand growth targets. - Full accountability for brand budget allocation, monitoring and control, ensuring resources are maximised and ROI is delivered. - Collaborate closely with Category, Sales, Finance, NPD, and Operations to align strategy and delivery. - Act as the face of the brand with key retail partners, presenting innovation plans, marketing campaigns, and performance updates. - Lead the execution of integrated campaigns across digital, PR, shopper, and experiential channels. About You: You're a confident and collaborative marketer with strong commercial acumen, a passion for consumer trends, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams to deliver real business results. You bring: - Proven experience in a brand management role within food / beverage industry. - A strong track record of product re-launches, innovation delivery, and performance management. - Excellent strategic thinking, communication, and stakeholder management skills. - Strong analytical capability - able to interpret data, generate insights, and turn them into actionable plans. - Comfortable being both strategic and hands-on - this is a role where you'll own the end-to-end brand journey. - Integrity - dealing with others in an honest manner, take accountability for actions, supporting company values and maintaining confidentiality. What's on Offer: - High-impact, strategic role on a brand with strong growth ambitions - Opportunity to own full brand responsibility and lead a major product re-launch - Hybrid working with a collaborative, cross-functional team - Competitive salary, benefits, and the chance to make a visible difference in 12 months If you're a brand leader ready to hit the ground running and make your mark in a dynamic and growing category, we'd love to hear from you. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)