Specification Writer - East Gwynedd
Role Overview:
In this role as a Specification Writer, youll be a key player in ensuring products meet the highest standards across the board. Youll manage and complete detailed specifications for retailers, customers, and the company brand, playing a critical part in bringing products to market. Your work will directly impact the quality and safety of the food products produced, making this a role where your attention to detail truly matters. This role will be suitable for someone with experience in a similar role, who understands the demands of working with major retailers. If you have a knack for managing multiple projects, meeting tight deadlines, and communicating effectively with both internal teams and external partners, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
Salary: Up to £32,500
Benefits:
- 28 days holiday, including public holidays
- On-site role
- Paid sick and compassionate leave
- Subsidised gym membership
- Free on-site parking
- £200 signing bonus at weeks 13 and 26
Key Responsibilities:
- Writing and completing finished product specifications for retailers, customers, and own brand products.
- Managing primary account responsibilities as agreed with the Technical Services Manager.
- Ensuring specifications meet high standards and KPIs.
- Administering retailer systems, including specification and artwork systems.
- Generating pack copies for own brand specifications.
- Reviewing and approving artwork, liaising with third parties and retailers/customers.
- Supporting the NPD team with nutritional calculations and submission form completion.
- Conducting cross-checks on factory paperwork, recipes, and specifications.
- Managing Brandbank reviews and approving product photos/information.
- Participating in pre and post-launch reviews.
- Understanding Brexit requirements and calculating relevant codes.
- Attending NPD meetings and supporting additional projects relevant to the role.
- Supporting supplier approval processes and raw material risk assessments.
- Maintaining basic knowledge of BRC and retailer audit requirements.
- Complying with health and safety guidelines and reporting accidents and near-misses.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Previous experience as a Specification Writer or a similar role, preferably within bakery/complex products.
- Knowledge of at least three retailer systems: Tesco, Sainsbury's, Co-op, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, Premier/Mondelez (Hamilton Grant).
- Up-to-date knowledge of retailer requirements/COP.
- Ability to use initiative to meet deadlines and work under pressure.
- Excellent time management and problem-solving skills.
- Strong team player with flexible and adaptable approach.
- Clear communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Basic knowledge of Brexit coding requirements.
- Training in packaging and legal labelling.
- HACCP/Food Safety Level 2 training.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Desirable Skills and Experience:
- Knowledge of all listed retailer systems.
- Food-based degree or similar.
- Awareness of sustainability requirements (e.g., FSC, RSPO, UTZ, RFA).
- Training in retailer specification systems.
- Internal audit training.
- HACCP/Food Safety Level 3 training.
This role offers a dynamic and supportive environment, with ample benefits and a focus on professional growth. If you possess the required skills and experience, this position could be the next step in your career.