Sensory Insights Specialist

Company description:
Vitaflo (International) Limited
For more than 25 years, Vitaflo has developed innovative specialised clinical nutritional products for inherited metabolic disorders, pediatric?kidney disease, and specialised diets such as the ketogenic diet.
Vitaflo products offer patients choice, flexibility, and convenience. We combine the latest medical research, together with insights on changing modern lifestyles to best support patients in the compliance of restrictive therapeutic diets.
Vitaflo continues its mission of Enhancing Lives Together with research and development at the heart of what we do.
Job description:
We are part of Nestlé Health Science and continue to expand our global footprint with a worldwide presence in Clinical Nutrition. Behind our pioneering company are people who drive breakthroughs in research and development, creating innovative impact.
Our employees are at the heart of what we stand for with 96% saying they are proud to work for us and 94% recommending Vitaflo as a good place to work.
Our Headquarters, based in Liverpool, is the hub of innovative and creative activity. We strive to be at the cutting edge of our industry sector with patients needs being at the forefront of our mind. We work collaboratively, share our knowledge and expertise and above all love what we do and why we do it.

Sensory Insights Specialist
We are currently looking to recruit a Sensory Insights Specialist to work at our Liverpool Headquarters on a full-time , permanent contract. You will be responsible for the timely delivery of sensory analysis testing, panel training, and performance monitoring. The role supports the NPD Technologists and Sensory Insights Manager, contributing to the successful development and launch of products. Benefiting from the opportunity to work flexibly.
What will you do? As the Sensory Insights Specialist , your main responsibilities will include:
Compiling product-specific sensory protocols aligned with Nestlé requirements to support innovation, renovation, and extension projects.
Conducting sensory analysis testing, including test setup, sample preparation, data analysis, and reporting findings to stakeholders.
Ensuring compliance with robust, auditable policies and documentation in line with Vitaflo and Nestlé Health Science standards.
Collaborating cross-functionally throughout NPD projects and contributing sensory expertise to wider business initiatives and risk assessments.
Leading the recruitment, training, and maintenance of in-house sensory panels and conducting patient panel testing where applicable.
Managing personal CPD, identifying knowledge gaps, and attending relevant training.
Efficiently utilizing development resources including the Vitaflo pilot plant, NHSc PTCs, and co-manufacturers.
Who are we looking for? Essential:
Degree in Food Science/Technology or a related discipline.
Experience in the food, FMCG, or pharmaceutical industries in a sensory role (preferred but not essential).
Strong initiative, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.
Proven relationship management with external partners.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Understanding of R&D processes, SOPs, and audit requirements.
Desirable:
Experience using sensory software (e.g., EyeQuestion).
Knowledge of project management tools.
Familiarity with scientific literature and critical appraisal.
Skills in negotiation and influence.
What we offer?
Competitive salary
25 days annual leave (pro rata for part time) plus bank holidays and Christmas shut down
Discretionary bonus scheme (subject to qualifying period)
Gym membership/allowance (subject to qualifying period)
Employer pension contribution (3% rising to 5% subject to qualifying period then matched to a maximum of 10%). Employee minimum contributions apply
Private healthcare (subject to qualifying period)
Volunteering opportunities
Cycle to work scheme (subject to qualifying period)
At Vitaflo (International) Ltd, our values are rooted in respect - for our employees, our customers and our patients. That's why championing diversity and inclusion is so important to us; when we embrace different perspectives and give everyone the chance to be the best they can be, we can think in new, creative ways that grow and enhance our business. We are committed to equal opportunity for all, and we may collect relevant anonymized data for monitoring purposes during our candidate registration process.

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