SENIOR MATERIAL EXPERT FOOD INGREDIENTS – FOODS GLOBAL INNOVATION TEAM. Salary range €44,000 - €60,000 based on experience. LOCATION – Wageningen (Netherlands) – local conditions apply. Full-time with 10% travel.

About the Company

Foods is one of the largest Business Groups in Unilever, boasting global multibillion-euro brands such as Knorr and Hellmann’s. Our mission is to enhance lives daily through superior marketing and innovative products, all while maintaining sustainability and cost advantages.

The Role

As a Senior Material Expert, you will report to the MET Food Ingredients Leader and manage the assigned portfolio. Your role involves providing technical input for portfolio initiatives and ensuring that ingredients meet functionality and quality standards from preferred suppliers, delivering sustainable value.

Responsibilities

• Manage the positive material list (PML) for assigned portfolios, ensuring compliance with safety, quality, regulatory, and allergen requirements.
• Optimize the Future Fit portfolio and lead the creation and approval of high-quality ingredient specifications in collaboration with global suppliers.
• Shape the innovation roadmap with the MET food ingredient leader and suppliers, facilitating the latest technologies for R&D.
• Build and maintain a strong network with suppliers, procurement, quality, and R&D functions.
• Collaborate with procurement on supplier strategy and technology scouting.
• Ensure effective implementation of portfolio strategies and crisis management across global R&D teams.
• Lead and coordinate specific MET projects across all MET Ingredients portfolios.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Food Science and Technology, Biotechnology, or Food Chemistry/Technology.
• Strong understanding of ingredient functionality, applications, and regulatory frameworks.
• Good tasting skills and understanding of sensory principles for material evaluation.
• Proactive and independent, with efficient workload coordination skills.
• Experience in product development or material expert teams is preferred.
• Advanced global communication skills and fluency in English.
• Collaborative mindset and commitment to teamwork.

Nice to Have

• Basic awareness of Recipe Design Principles for Cooking Aids, Mini Meals, and Condiments.
• Hands-on knowledge of digital tools like PLM, ELN, Minerva & PowerBI.
• Interest in food trends and ingredient applications.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your application online, including your CV and motivation letter. We will review your application against our requirements and contact you shortly after the closing date with an update. Unilever is committed to protecting your personal data in compliance with applicable data protection laws.

Unilever is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination. Join us in making a better business, a better world, and a better you.