Business Development Chef

Key ResponsibilitiesDrive Product InnovationIdentify market opportunities, consumer insights, and category gaps.Develop commercially viable product concepts with R&D and Culinary teams.Own concept briefs, positioning, pricing targets, and profitability plans.Lead cross-functional product development from idea to launch.Manage End-to-End Product DevelopmentTake products from concept approval to commercial launch.Oversee specifications, costing, packaging, compliance, and launch readiness.Ensure smooth production rollout and first customer sale.Lead Brand & Packaging ExperienceTranslate product concepts into compelling packaging and visual assets.Collaborate with agencies, designers, photographers, and chefs.Manage artwork approvals, digital assets, and brand compliance.Build Winning Commercial PropositionsCreate impactful sales presentations and product pitch decks.Develop customer-focused value propositions and category stories.Support Sales teams with tailored presentations for Retail, Hospitality, and Foodservice.Product Demonstration & Customer EngagementLead product tastings, demos, and customer presentations.Partner with chefs to showcase products at premium quality standards.Develop tools and processes to support scalable product demonstrations.Own Category PerformanceMonitor revenue, margin, sales performance, and SKU productivity.Conduct category reviews and identify growth opportunities.Lead product optimization, renovations, pricing, and portfolio decisions.Manage a strong innovation pipeline while maximizing category profitability.Customer & Market Relationship ManagementAct as the key contact for customer feedback and product requests.Build structured feedback and issue-resolution processes.Develop trusted relationships with key customer accounts and industry stakeholders.Convert customer insights into innovation and commercial opportunities.Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Food Science, Culinary Management, or related field.10+ years of experience in Category Management, Product/Brand Management, NPD, FMCG, Food Manufacturing, or F&B.Proven success in taking products from concept through commercial launch.Strong knowledge of food production, food safety, and NPD processes.Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills.Proficiency in presentations, analytics, spreadsheets, and project management tools.Preferred ProfileStrong culinary background with experience in hospitality, foodservice, gourmet foods, or professional kitchens.Deep understanding of international culinary trends and premium hospitality requirements.Ability to engage with chefs, F&B leaders, and hotel decision-makers across the UAE.Expertise in consultative selling, product demonstrations, and business development.Skilled at translating customer needs into innovative product solutions.