Innovation Manager – Shape the Future of Snacks
About Us
Calbee is Japan’s #1 snack brand and one of the world’s largest snack manufacturers, creating snacks loved by millions across Asia and beyond for over 50 years.
Since 1945, Seabrook Crisps has been crafting bold, distinctive snacks that stand out from the crowd. From our roots in Bradford to becoming a nationally loved brand, our signature crinkle-cut crisps and fearless approach to flavour have earned us a loyal following.
Seabrook joined the Calbee group in 2018, joining forces to enter an exciting new phase of growth. With a strong portfolio of brands, impressive growth in a competitive market and ambitious plans for the years ahead, we’re investing in innovation, capability, capacity, and talent to take our brands – and our people – to the next level.
The Opportunity
This is not just another R&D role.
As Innovation Manager – Snacks, you’ll be at the forefront of our innovation agenda. Working closely with R&D colleagues and the wider Marketing team, you’ll own and drive the development of exciting new products across both our branded and own label portfolios. You’ll have real influence, real visibility, and the chance to make a tangible impact on snacks enjoyed by millions.
Working at the intersection of Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Operations and our global R&D network, you’ll take ideas from insight to shelf, creating commercially successful, consumer‑loved products in a fast moving, highly collaborative environment.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead the snacks innovation agenda, shaping and delivering a forward‑thinking NPD pipeline aligned to brand strategy.
- Own the end‑to‑end development process – from concept creation through to successful product launch.
- Bring ideas to life – develop concepts, create samples, and collaborate with suppliers to refine products.
- Partner with customers – work closely with major UK retailers to deliver winning own‑label solutions.
- Drive cross‑functional delivery – lead cross‑functional project teams with colleagues from Operations, Marketing, Sales, and Supply Chain.
- Embed a culture of innovation – champion creativity, pace, and continuous improvement across the business.
This is a hands‑on role where your ideas, energy, and expertise will directly shape the future.
What We’re Looking For
You’re an ambitious, commercially minded product developer who thrives in a fast‑paced FMCG environment and is ready to step into a high‑impact role. You excel at building strong, collaborative relationships and see a positive, adaptable outlook as key to success.
- Proven experience in FMCG product development (4+ years).
- Strong track record of delivering NPD projects from concept to launch.
- Confident leading cross‑functional teams and managing multiple projects.
- Experience working with UK retailers on own‑label development (advantageous).
- Knowledge of frying/extrusion technologies (desirable – especially in savoury snacks).
- Strong organisational and IT skills.
- Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or similar.
- Full UK driving licence.
Bonus Points If You Have
- Previous exposure to international teams or global brands.
- Japanese language skills.
Who You Are
- A natural collaborator who can influence at all levels and forge strong working partnerships.
- Resilient, adaptable, and calm under pressure.
- Proactive, driven, and solutions‑focused.
- Commercially aware with strong prioritisation skills.
- Curious, creative, and always looking for better ways to do things.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a growing, ambitious business backed by a global leader.
- Work in a culture where innovation is genuinely valued and encouraged.
- Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package.
- Access career development opportunities within an international group.
- Play a key role in shaping products that reach millions of consumers across the UK.
Location
- Deeside, close to Chester, Manchester and Liverpool.
- Some travel to Bradford HQ.
- Occasional global and wider UK travel.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to take the next step in your R&D career and want to be part of an exciting growth journey, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV and cover letter to: Charlotte.Midgley@calbeegroupuk.com.
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