Technologist

Role title:  Technologist

This role is a critical for ensuring food safety & quality standards are met and prioritised in line with delivering our Co-op Own Brand Strategy to become the most trusted & biggest brand in the convenience market. This role is accountable for ensuring all products & processes are food safe and that suppliers are technically audited in compliance with our technical policies for all Co-op brand products sold across Co-op stores & B2B Channels (we will agree where responsibility hands over to B2B on a channel basis) This role will support new product development and work closely with the team to ensure we achieve iconic market leading launches. This role will stay close to legislation and policy updates, staying current with legislation & Co-op policies. This role will develop strong supplier relationships and ensure suppliers understand and meet all Co-op requirements. Key metrics: Food Safety, Quality Perception, Customer Satisfaction, Customer Complaints, Reduction in Product Withdrawals, Market Leading NPD Launches 

 •Ensure all products & processes are food safe

 •Ensure Co-op is compliant to all category relevant regulations 

• Lead the vision for safe, sustainable & resilient food systems 

• Manage supplier relationships

 • Support New Product Development 

• Reject product if agreed standards not met • Complete recalls & withdrawals when required

• Food Safety Qualification, HACCP/ GMP/ Hygiene 

• Or BSc in Food Science or related subject 

• Microbiology and Nutrition – demonstrate understanding 

• Experience in food manufacturing or food retail 

• Able to travel across country (ies) to visit supply base 

• Excellent communication & attention to detail 

• Can demonstrate understanding of our food safety policies & quality standards & can challenge when these standards are not met 

• Ability to network and build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. 

• Strong data & IT skills