Ingredient Specialist

Job Description As the Ingredient Specialist, you will be the main point of contact for ANZ Grocery (GRO) SKUs within the Product Development Team. You will drive interdepartmental collaboration with FSQA and strategic procurement, oversee sensory testing for existing and new ingredients, and champion SKU performance and improvements.   This role is based in Sydney and reports into the Ingredient Management Lead ANZ   You will… • Identify and report on underperforming ANZ Grocery SKUs, driving cross-functional alignment with FSQA and strategic procurement to implement evidence-based improvement initiatives. • Conduct post launch reviews (PLRs) for all new ANZ Grocery ingredients, providing strategic recommendations on SKU graduation. • Serve as the ANZ subject matter expert for sensory assessment of GRO ingredients, owning the end-to-end delivery of existing and new ingredient testing programs, from session design to results reporting. • Manage ANZ RFP/Tender testing programs, coordinating cross-functional and supplier stakeholders to ensure delivery within agreed timelines. • Drive full cross-functional ownership of the ANZ SKU offboarding process, including governance, reporting, and process improvements. • Champion a culture of continuous improvement across sensory assessment methodologies, tools, and team processes. • Support and lead ad hoc strategic projects as required, including organoleptic shelf life testing, additives reviews and SKU deep dives. • Take ownership of team Confluence process documentation, ensuring it serves as a reliable reference for the broader team.   You have/you are… • Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Science, or a related discipline. • Strong knowledge of food manufacturing, with an understanding of functional ingredients and processing methods. • Demonstrated experience in sensory testing and evaluation methodologies, including designing and conducting panels. • Proficient culinary knowledge to assess ingredient functionality and identify appropriate recipe applications. • Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent timelines and cross-functional initiatives. • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience collaborating across departments such as FSQA, Procurement, and Culinary.   • Detail-oriented with strong analytical and critical thinking abilities. • Passionate about food, quality, and innovation, with a customer-centric mindset.   What you’ll get in return…    • The chance to have a significant impact in a leading global food technology company • Flexible working arrangements  • Egoless environment, constant learning with room for personal growth • Free access to Headspace • Internal learning & development  • A diverse and vibrant international environment, with offices in 18 countriesCompany    Start Date: September 7 2026 Duration: Permanent full time role Must have full-time working rights in Australia Location: Sydney - hybrid working environment Salary: Competitive salary & employee benefits #Li-hybrid