Product Developer- Flavour and Seasonings Review

This role is based on seasoning and flavour development for snacks products across the whole of Europe. From working with core products to reformulate or renovate the seasonings, to develop new seasonings for new products or new flavours. This role includes the management of multiple projects spanning the development stages from marketing at gate 2 to implementation in the factories at gate 4. Additionally there is the opportunity to travel to different sites to support with factory trails, first production of new or reformulated seasonings or to support on problem solving when there are issues in relation to products, processes or packaging.

This is a well organised placement year that has personal and professional development opportunities throughout the year. I have learnt how to network to create industry connections and to develop a large and diverse professional network. This placement scheme provides an abundance of opportunities to gain confidence in presenting as an individual or as part of a team to both internal and external professionals of a variety of levels. Additionally, whilst balancing university work and placement projects, I challenged my time management abilities. Throughout the year I had multiple projects, presentations and university assignments to juggle. Learning how to balance these is a critical skill.

As I gained knowledge and experience throughout the year, my confidence in my ability to do well in this role grew. With this increase in confidence came more tasks and responsibility. At the beginning tasks take a long time and seem to be a lot on effort however with experience my ability to complete these tasks improved. Up to 6 months, the placement is mostly learning the necessary skills and after the 6 months it is gaining responsibilities and completing tasks to support your team. It takes a while to be trusted with responsibilities however as it builds up others gain more trust in you

The scheme used for this placement provides an abundance of support. With both a direct line manager and a mentor and/or buddy supports both your personal and professional development. The scheme gives opportunities to develop critical skills as part of a placement cohort and as an individual through the online learning platform that is available to all employees. Additionally there has been opportunities to further my personal and career development through sessions run on the research and development site to develop and inter team working relationship and to allow all employees to network outside of the usual work conversations.

within Research and Development there culture is very supportive, there is always someone around to help and they want you to make the most of this placement year. People always make time to listen to what you need but will also always value your input in conversations. The company really cares about your work life balance and so ensure that this is maintained throughout your placement year. Additionally, because you are working in the food industry, there is a massive food culture so there is always new sessions running based on different cuisines, new food products and up and coming food trends.

I thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity. The large social network provided by this placement was the biggest highlight of the year. With 25 other students based in Leicester and the surrounding areas, there is always an activity happening, always a social event planned and there is always someone in the office (Even on a Friday). This is something that is not usually offered by many other placements or job opportunities. Additionally the friendly and social work culture within the staff in the office has meant that I have connections with people who are outside of my normal social circle. This makes working more enjoyable.

Yes

Reach out to the current staff or the current students that work in the research and development offices in Leicester to find out about the roles currently on offer. The job description does not include your teams title and so the job roles and daily tasks may vary depending on the team but the core principles remain the same. Additionally this will help you get a sense of the type of people that you will be working with as this is a big factor to think about when applying to placement. It is more than just the job - think about the social and lifestyle aspects.