Why join us

Joining the Sainsbury's team as a Development Chef means immersing yourself in a dynamic and innovative environment where culinary creativity and passion are at the forefront of product development. With a strong focus on culinary trends and product innovation, you will have the opportunity to showcase your skills, collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders, and bring new product ideas to life in the kitchen. By working in the Central Innovation team, you will be part of a supportive and collaborative culture that values personal growth and development, offering opportunities for training, upskilling, and exposure to a wide range of culinary experiences.

What you'll do

As a Development Chef at Sainsbury's, you will play a vital role in creating and developing innovative new food product concepts and ranges. Your responsibilities will include conducting research on culinary trends and presenting your findings, showcasing products through dinner and PR events, coming up with new and exclusive concepts, writing recipes for various marketing campaigns and more. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as Marketing and Events, to ensure that products are aligned with the company's goals and meet customer demands. As a Development Chef, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the creation of exciting new food products that will delight our customers and enhance their shopping experience with us.

Who you are

As a Development Chef at Sainsbury's, you are a talented culinary professional with a passion for creating exceptional food experiences. With your expertise and creativity, you possess the ability to develop innovative and delicious recipes that meet the diverse needs and preferences of our customers. Your knowledge of culinary trends, ingredients, and techniques allows you to stay ahead in the ever-evolving food industry. As an integral part of our team, you bring a strong attention to detail, ensuring that the food you create not only tastes amazing but also meets the highest quality standards. With your dedication to enhancing the customer experience through culinary excellence, you play a vital role in shaping and delivering our food offerings to delight and inspire our customers.

Essential Criteria

Demonstrable, proven experience as a professional chef currently, with the ability to create and execute high‑quality, innovative recipes in food retail or similar. Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, flavour profiles, ingredients and food trends, with the ability to translate insights into commercially viable product concepts. Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially PowerPoint, with the ability to design creative, visually engaging slides to inspire internal stakeholders and communicate new product development ideas. Excellent organisation and communication skills, with the ability to work cross‑functionally and present confidently to various audiences. Ability to work efficiently in a fast‑paced kitchen environment, demonstrating strong time management, hygiene standards, competency in following standard recipe writing practices and adaptability across all food categories.  Ability to plan and lead some small events with flexibility to work occasional evenings for events.