Senior NPD Technologist

Haywood & Padgett is one of the UK’s most dynamic and fast‑growing bakeries, supplying a wide range of high‑quality products to major retailers and food service partners nationwide.

From our purpose‑built site in Carlton, Barnsley, we’ve grown from a small family business into a leading manufacturer, without ever losing the warmth, respect and close‑knit culture that shaped our beginnings.

Our success is driven by innovation, consistency and a genuine passion for great food. Demand for our products continues to rise, and we’re now looking for a talented Senior NPD Technologist to join our expanding team and help shape the next generation of bakery products.

We’re looking for a creative, hands‑on foodie who thrives on innovation and problem‑solving. You’ll enjoy working at pace, juggling multiple projects and bringing ideas to life from concept to launch.

You’ll be confident, collaborative and proactive, someone who communicates well, builds strong relationships and works effectively with colleagues at all levels. You’ll be comfortable making decisions, influencing change and driving continuous improvement, always with food safety and quality at the forefront.

As Senior NPD Technologist, you will play a key role in developing new products and improving existing ones. You’ll support the full NPD process, from initial brief to launch, ensuring our products meet customer expectations, technical standards and commercial requirements.

• Interpret and deliver internal and customer briefs, considering time, cost, quality and feasibility.
• Create, bake and refine new recipes to meet customer and legal requirements.
• Improve existing recipes to enhance quality, consistency and customer satisfaction.
• Work closely with suppliers to source new ingredients and optimise current ones.
• Coordinate sample collections and deliveries with couriers.
• Complete Sample Submission Forms accurately and on time.
• Actively support scale‑ups, factory trials and product launches.
• Stay informed about new processes, equipment, trends and ingredients.
• Share insights and ideas with the wider management team.
• Participate in internal, supplier and customer meetings when required.
• Ensure correct PPE is worn and all equipment is cleaned after use.

• Previous experience in an NPD role within a bakery environment.
• Strong understanding of food manufacturing processes.
• Solid knowledge of food safety.

• Degree in Food Science, a scientific discipline or related field.
• Full UK driving licence.

• Flexible, adaptable and comfortable in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication, presentation and writing skills.
• Strong organisational and time‑management abilities.
• Able to work independently or as part of a team.
• High attention to detail.
• Motivated, enthusiastic and committed to continuous improvement.
• Company pension
• 33 days holiday (including Bank Holidays)