Reports to: Senior Manager, Product Innovation & OptimizationSalary range: $65,000 – $70,000 depending on experienceCOBS Bread is looking for a passionate and creative Product Innovation Specialist to work alongside marketing, supply chain, operations and other support teams to develop, research, prepare and evaluate the success of new and existing product ranges. This position will lead the charge in testing, trialing, and implementing recipes that will influence flavors across COBS bakeries nationwide.Key responsibilities include:Managing the product lifecycle including conceptualization, design, trials, creation and evaluation of new concepts, recipes, and products for targeted markets or customers and final product specificationsBuilding key relationships with strategic suppliers to source new ingredients and vendorsAs a member of the Innovation Team, deliver test baking of new and existing products and recipes to the group for feedback and product enhancementStay abreast of trends and developments within the industry, channels, and techniques that will keep the brand in the forefrontPrepare finished products to the highest standards for marketing activities including promotional materials, photoshoots and customer eventsAssist the Baking and Training Specialist with various tasks such as managing the National Baking Competition, developing Masterclass video content for training programs, and troubleshooting product quality issues with bakeriesWorking at our retail test bakery, the physical requirements are:Use of baking tools, equipment, and machineryWalking, standing, or sitting for extended periods of timeAbility to lift up to 50 lbsRequirementsWhat You Bring to the Table:5+ years' proven experience in baking and product development, preferably within the retail, hospitality or manufacturing industriesAdvanced baking skills and understanding of baking techniquesExtensive experience and passion for development of recipe, flavour, cost, and nutritionKnowledge of ingredients functionality, product evaluation, health and nutrition, food manufacturing processes, microbiology, quality assurance principles, and market research principlesStrong project management skills in overseeing multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines with a sense of urgencyAbility to work flexible schedule including nights, early mornings and weekendsDetail oriented and possess strong organizational skillsExcellent verbal and written communications skillsAdept in MS Office, including Outlook, Word and ExcelRed Seal baker or equivalent is an assetKnowledge of Retail, Consumer Packaged Goods and/or Franchising is an assetHaving a culinary blog and experience presenting via social media or TV is an assetWhat's in it for You:Not only do we have fresh COBS Bread product delivered daily to our Vancouver Support Office, we offer some pretty sweet perks too!A flexible work arrangement and a one-time work from home reimbursement to ensure you're set up for successCompetitive salary, company bonus and vacation planA great Extended Health & Dental Benefit, Group RRSP Matching, and Health Spending AccountPaid sick, mental health and personal leave daysPaid day for community service or volunteer opportunitySubsidized wellness program and an on-site gym facilityAn open, 'continuous-learning' environment where professional development and career progression is encouragedWork within a dynamic, driven, high-achieving, close-knit and fun-loving teamHigh level of autonomy and responsibilityComplimentary self-serve kitchen of fresh produce, deli meats and of course, COBS Bread and treats!We thank all applicants for their interest in COBS Bread but would like to advise that only applicants shortlisted for interview will be contacted.We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company.About COBS BreadWith over 160 locations, COBS Bread serves fresh and delightful baked goods to communities across Canada. Any unsold items are donated daily to various local charities and food banks. The company's success can be attributed to the quality of our product, the development of our people and our warm and friendly customer service.COBS Bread is part of Bakers Delight – Established in 1980 operating as Bakers Delight in Australia and New Zealand, and since 2003 as COBS Bread in Canada and the USA. Together we have grown to more than 700 bakeries across Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA. The entire network employs over 15,000 people, serving more than 2.1 million customers each week.Accessibility Accommodation is available upon request for applicants and employees with disabilities. If you are contacted for a job opportunity, please advise us of any accommodations needed to ensure you have access to a fair and equitable process. Any information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.#J-18808-Ljbffr
