R&D Chef

We are looking for a creative and commercially minded R&D Chef to lead product innovation.

This role goes beyond developing new flavours. The ideal candidate will be responsible for creating new cookie concepts, structures, textures, fillings, formats and customer experiences while ensuring products can be consistently produced at scale.

Candidates are not required to have extensive cookie-specific experience. However, a strong background in pastry, baking or dessert product development, combined with hands-on R&D experience, is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research, develop and test new cookie products, seasonal collections and limited-time offerings.
• Create innovative cookie concepts beyond flavour development, including: new cookie structures and formats; filled, layered or multi-texture cookies; different baking techniques and textures; hybrid products combining cookies with pastries, cakes or desserts.
• Continuously explore global dessert and bakery trends for inspiration.
• Conduct product trials and recipe optimisation.
• Evaluate texture, appearance, shelf life, consistency and customer appeal.
• Source and test new ingredients and components.
• Document recipes, specifications and testing results.
• Convert successful concepts into production-ready recipes.
• Ensure products can be consistently produced in Central Kitchen and outlets.
• Work closely with Production, Operations and Procurement teams on ingredient sourcing and costing.
• Maintain target food cost and operational efficiency.
• Review existing products and recommend improvements.
• Standardise recipes, preparation methods and quality benchmarks.
• Support troubleshooting of production and product quality issues.

Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, Baking Technology or related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in: Pastry production, Bakery operations, or Dessert product development.
• Prior experience in R&D, menu development or new product creation is highly preferred.
• Cookie-specific experience is an advantage but not mandatory.