New Product Development Placement Student

We are looking for an enthusiastic student to join our New Product Development team for a placement year 2027-2028. Reporting to the New Product Development Project Manager, you will support new product development activity and gain practical experience of taking food products from initial concept through to launch.

You will work with colleagues, customers and suppliers across a varied portfolio that includes flavoured tuna, cooking and oriental sauces, meal kits and ingredients. This is a hands-on opportunity to understand how a commercial food development function operates and collaborates across the wider business.

What you’ll be doing

• Support the Development team across a range of new product development projects.

• Help maintain clear communication with customers and suppliers as products progress from concept to launch.

• Provide updates to relevant internal departments and support effective cross-functional working.

• Research food and market trends relevant to our existing and potential product portfolio.

• Support the Commercial team with market knowledge and product insights.

• Maintain accurate development information, records and data.

• Balance a number of projects and priorities while meeting agreed deadlines.

About you

You will be studying towards a Food Science or related degree and will normally have completed the first two years of your course before starting the placement. Some awareness of a food manufacturing environment would be an advantage, but it is not essential.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a genuine interest in food and an awareness of current food market trends.

• Communicates clearly and confidently with a range of people.

• Can organise their workload and manage several projects at the same time.

• Works well independently while building effective relationships across different departments.

• Has strong attention to detail and takes pride in maintaining accurate information.

• Has a working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint.

What you’ll gain

You will develop a detailed understanding of new product development within an international food business, including how Development works with customers, suppliers, Commercial colleagues and other internal teams. You will gain practical experience of live projects and build valuable commercial, communication and project management skills.

What you'll receive

• A competitive salary of c.£24,500 per annum for your placement year.

• The opportunity to receive a discretionary bonus, subject to company and individual performance, following scheme rules.

• 26 days’ paid annual leave.

• Your birthday off.

• Access to volunteering leave and charity fund match.

• Access to a wellbeing allowance.

• Access to our discounts and perk platform - Perkbox.

• Private Medical.

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Free Parking / Office is walking distance from Ascot Train Station