The role will report to the Head of Global R&D Head of Cocoa Innovation*. It is expected that the incumbent will work very closely with their counterparts across the Central Innovation & technology team to effectively delivery the joint growth and transformation agenda and sustainability deliverables.

Principle Accountabilities

• Lead the creation and optimization of cocoa blends and chocolate products that engine Innovation pipeline.
• Build, curate and share deep knowledge of emerging cocoa processing methods, materials science and industry trends.
• Drive the development of proprietary and sustainable cocoa solutions, including cross-category product designs.
• Lead research and development of novel cocoa extenders, substitutes and flavour-modulating solutions.
• Own the end-to-end understanding of scalability, from bean processing through chocolate, confectionery and baked finished goods
• Lead prototyping cycles, pilot plant and factory trials, ensuring robust technical validation and readiness for launch.
• Provide expert technical support to operations, delivering solutions that balance quality, cost, performance and sustainability.
• Identify, develop and progress patentable opportunities within cocoa materials, chocolate technologies and related processes
• Work collaboratively and in partnership with other functions and teams (e.g. Sensory and Consumers Insights, Procurement, Supply Chain, Quality)

Bring your experience.

Essential

• Excellent core technical skills and be able to understand the needs of the business, our consumers and customers to drive an exciting cocoa and chocolate technology agenda. The individual will be a self-starter and possess a drive for results.

What will the interview process be?

• Initial Telephone call with Talent Acquisition
• 1st stage interview – 45 minutes competency-based interview based on our company values and your experiences.
• 2nd stage interview – 60 minutes – a technical interview to understand your skill set/case study or presentation interview.
• Final interview based on Leadership Success Model Assessment/role competencies.

pladis does also use both Psychometric and Aptitude tests to support our processes so you may be asked to complete these as part of your process. Some processes may differ, but we will keep you updated!

What does pladis offer you?

• Annual Incentive Plan (AIP) – this is the business’s annual bonus scheme.
• Opportunity to self-enrol into Health Cash Plan
• Private medical Insurance (if eligible)
• Enhanced parental leave and a supportive phased return-to-work program to help colleagues balance family and career.
• Stakeholder Pension Scheme
• Life Assurance Cover ~ upon enrolment to Stakeholder Pension Scheme
• 25 days + bank holidays
• Holiday Enhancement Scheme
• 1 Volunteering Day per year
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discount and Cashback Scheme – make your everyday spending work hard for you on major high street brands, supermarkets and services
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme
• Financial Wellbeing Support
• Access to great training and development opportunities

Our Values

• Purpose led – We’re energised and guided by our purpose to bring happiness with every bite
• Agile – We’re ever evolving, we never stand still, always improving for our customers and our consumers.
• Positive – We’re highly motivated optimistic, courageous, and we inspire each other to be better
• Resilient - We’re persistent in the face of setbacks, quick to adapt, learn and move forward
• Collaborative – We gain strength from operating as one pladis, winning and succeeding together

Best mix of ingredients

pladis is an equal opportunities employer, like every great recipe we’re a thoughtful mix. A happy and inclusive place to work that’s as diverse as our consumers and the communities we support, live and work in, all around the world. Where every voice is heard, and difference is celebrated. Where fresh perspectives and new ideas help us grow and thrive.

Accessibility at High Wycombe:

Our High Wycombe site has accessible entrances and lifts between floors to support individuals with mobility needs, but currently does not have step-free access. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, and where possible to perform key job functions.

Godiva and affiliates, is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to hiring a diverse workforce. All openings will be filled based on qualifications without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.

Search Firm Representatives please read carefully:

Godiva is not seeking assistance or accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms for this employment opportunity. Regardless of past practice, all resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Godiva via-email, the Internet or directly to hiring managers at Godiva in any form without a valid written search agreement in place for that position will be deemed the sole property of Godiva, and no fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Godiva as a result of the referral or through other means.