Head of Food Innovation

About Us
Hello, we are Red Engine, the team behind the award-winning global brands Flight Club and Electric Shuffle. We're obsessed with disrupting the hospitality industry by creating and delivering the best possible experience - across all venues, products and brands.
Our central team covers the full spectrum of skills needed to bring each concept to life - from design to marketing, sales to interior design, people and training, to finance, gaming and HR and everything in between. We’re not just a team of people, we are dreamers, artists, rocket scientists, content curators, forward thinkers and the industry’s finest. We love what we do and are proud to be included in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024
With a total of 17 incredible venues throughout the UK, and a further 13 around the globe, we have ambitious plans and are passionate about developing new and exciting products, which means we’re always growing and looking for passionate people to join the family.
The Job
The Head of Food Innovation is a pivotal role in Red Engine, responsible for driving the creation and development of new and exciting menu items. This position involves conducting extensive market research to identify emerging food trends and guest preferences, ensuring that the menu remains fresh, appealing and on brand. The scope of this role will cover our UK and US operations so you can expect regular national and international travel. You will collaborate closely with the Regional training chef and Training team to test and refine recipes, maintaining high standards of quality and consistency. Additionally, you will manage cost and pricing strategies to ensure financial viability while sourcing high-quality ingredients. By leading the culinary experience, the Head of Food Innovation fosters a culture of creativity and excellence, ultimately enhancing the dining experience and motivates and inspires the business to new and higher levels of food excellence.
**Key responsibilities will include**:Product Development**:
Lead the design of new menu development and ensure that the food proposition is aligned to guest profiles (Classic, Brunch, Events & Bar)
Oversee the development and launch of new food products in line with brand standards culminating in the successful launch of new menus and dishes across the estate
Drive culinary innovation by analysing market trends and consumer preferences to identify new opportunities in line with brand standards. Able to forecast potential trends and draw insights relevant to the business
Analyse food dish performance using guest insight and share key findings with the leadership team at quarterly intervals
Ensures dish margins of are achieved whilst maintaining quality
Ensure products meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards
Ensure all food tech information is up to date and compliant with food safety standards
Work closely with the operations admin assistant to ensure the allergy matrix is always up to date
**Project Management**:
Manage food innovation projects from concept to commercialisation
Ensure critical paths are kept on track and all projects are delivered on time and on budget
Coordinate with suppliers and partners to ensure timely delivery of projects
Monitor project budgets and timelines to ensure efficiency
Collaborate with Procurement and Ops teams to ensure the best quality products are available in line with costs
**Team Management**:
Collaborate with other departments to align food innovation with overall business goals
Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to the business
Working with the Regional operations chef, train new products and menu dishes to the kitchen team across the business
Organise and deliver cook offs and present dishes clearly and accurately
Have an intimate understanding of (all) site operational capabilities Quality Assurance:
Implement quality control measures to maintain high standards
Conduct regular reviews and audits of food products and processes
Address any issues related to food safety and quality promptly
**To be successful in this role, you'll**:
Have extensive experience in food product development and innovation, preferably in a leadership position
Be persuasive at leadership level with supporting commercial information where need
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Excellent project management and organisational abilities
Strong leadership and team management skills
Creative thinking and problem-solving skills
Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality standards
Extensive Professional Experience in the food service and/or restaurant industry at a senior level
First class culinary skill and capability
Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skill
Strong listening and influencing skills with proven effectiveness in successfully leading work streams and project teams
Proven ability to manage projects on time, on budget and to measurable outcomes
Excellent interpersonal and leadership skill