Food Development and Production Manager

About Us:

We are an innovative community interest company based in Scotland, dedicated to producing high-quality sauces, jams, and snacks including bean-to-bar chocolate while fostering sustainable practices Both here in the UK and with our partners in Ghana.

Our strong partnership with cocoa producers in Ghana is central to our mission, and we aim to bring exceptional products to customers in the UK and worldwide, promoting ethical and transparent sourcing.

Job Overview:

We are seeking a motivated Development and Production Manager to lead the growth of our sauces, jams and chocolates products and expand our product offerings for Schoolyard Kitchen. This role will involve overseeing product development, managing the production process, maintaining the warehouse and logistics, handling online sales and customer relations, and representing the company at industry events to promote our social mission, with a special emphasis on our partnerships with producers in Ghana.

Ideally you will have some experience or interest in making bean to bar chocolate and understand the processes involved however this is not essential as additional training will be provided. Depending on experience there is a part of the job that could involve leading in sourcing and selling cocoa beans to supplier..

Key Responsibilities:

Product Development and Production:

• Contribute to the development of the Schoolyard Kitchen product ranges including our new bean-to-bar chocolate varieties.
• Oversee and develop the production processes for each SKU
• As a Chocolate Maker, your main responsibility is to carry out all the stages involved in the production of chocolate products. This includes sourcing raw cocoa beans, roasting and grinding them, and blending them with other ingredients to produce the finished bean to bar products.
• Ensure consistency and quality throughout each stage of production, from sourcing to finished product.
• Ensure high-quality standards and innovative product offerings.

Sales and Customer Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers to identify new product lines to drive sales growth and market expansion.
• Develop and Implement strategies to expand the customer base in the UK and internationally, enhancing brand visibility and market presence.
• Manage customer inquiries, orders, and invoices ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Represent the organization at industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to build brand awareness.

Logistics and Warehouse Management:

• Coordinate logistics and transportation for both domestic and international orders, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.
• Ensure the appropriate quality standards are adhered to in all aspects of the cocoa storage, distribution, production and resale
• Oversee warehouse operations to maintain optimal storage conditions for cocoa and chocolate products.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Passion for chocolate, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and leadership skills.
• Proven experience in product development, production management, and sales, ideally within the food or chocolate industry.
• Strong knowledge of marketing strategies, including digital marketing, social media, and public relations.
• Experience with logistics, warehousing, and supply chain management.
• Familiarity with SALSA, Soil Association, and Flocert standards and auditing processes.
• Understanding of chocolate bean-to-bar production process including winnowing, roasting, melanging, and tempering.

"Please note that applicants who have previously applied for this position will not be considered for the current opening."