New Product Development Specialist (FMCG)

About the role

This 1‑year fixed‑term position supports the New Product Development (NPD) department of a fast‑growing plant‑based food brand. You will work closely with production, quality, finance and external suppliers to bring innovative FMCG products to market.

Key responsibilities

• Execute existing product development (EPD) and new product development (NPD) projects in line with the NPD framework, BRCGS, regulatory requirements and customer specifications.
• Develop project briefs based on production director and customer inputs.
• Source and evaluate new ingredients and packaging to improve cost efficiency and supply continuity.
• Scale‑up new and existing recipes, collaborating with operations for successful integration.
• Support supplier sourcing, specification management and maintain up‑to‑date supplier data.
• Conduct quality and food‑safety analyses, external testing, and approve fermented batches before production.
• Generate and validate finished‑product specifications, including for Musgrave’s range.
• Lead shelf‑life, sensory trials and panel tastings, benchmarking against competitors.
• Monitor European, Irish and UK legislation and implement necessary changes.
• Maintain comprehensive project records complying with BRCGS, Musgrave’s, FSAI and stage‑gate processes.

Required profile

• BSc degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition or equivalent.
• Proven experience in FMCG product development, preferably with plant‑based foods.
• Strong organisational abilities and problem‑solving skills in a fast‑paced environment.

Required skills

• Food Science
• Food Technology
• Nutrition
• BRCGS compliance
• FSAI regulatory knowledge
• Project Management
• Scale‑up and formulation
• Sensory analysis
• Shelf‑life testing

What we offer

• Competitive salary €40,000‑€45,000 per annum.
• One‑year fixed‑term contract covering maternity leave.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic, innovative team within a rapidly expanding brand.
• Collaboration with cross‑functional stakeholders and external partners.