Executive Food Development - Starbucks

Job description / Role

Executive Food Development - Starbucks - Riyadh, KSA CP

From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrates coffee and the rich tradition, but that also brings a feeling of connection. Starbucks coffee houses have become a beacon for coffee lovers everywhere because they know they can count on genuine service, an inviting atmosphere and a superb cup of expertly roasted and richly brewed coffee every time. It's not unusual to see people coming to Starbucks to chat, meet up or even work.

Starbucks is a neighborhood gathering place, a part of the daily routine - and we couldn't be happier about it. Get to know us and you'll see: we are so much more than what we brew. Starbucks prides itself on its people, or 'partners' as we call them. We strive to develop each partner to achieve their career goals, whether this is to become a district manager, Coffee Master or work within one of our Head Office functions.

As Food Development Executive for Starbucks in Riyadh, you will assist in managing food innovation, development and market roll out, as well as develop fresh food experiences. You will engage in menu development, and support vendors with quality assurance and recipe refinement whilst assuring overall profitability of the food category and implementation of the Starbucks food strategy across the MENA region.

Key responsibilities include (but are not limited to):
* Contributing to development of a competitive, premium quality range of food products which are well merchandised and managed in-store to achieve company KPIs for sales and profit, brand fit, innovation, quality and customer satisfaction
* Identifying and developing opportunities to maximise sales through food product offering and standards
* Working with the category team to monitor and interpret food product performance as a method of optimising menu selection
* Assisting with category reviews in order to be able to adapt & develop fashionable menu lines based on emerging food trends within the markets
* Working alongside and maintaining strong relations with suppliers to develop and document both product recipes and specifications
* Conducting sensory analysis, market research and customer sampling sessions
* Ensuring spot checks of appropriate manufacture, storage, temperature control, delivery and handling are maintained by both vendors and stores at all times
* Assisting with the implementation of in store training to maximise the success of new food initiatives.

Requirements

* Degree level education in a related field
* Minimum 2 years' experience in an Executive Food Development role
* Multi-national/cultural food knowledge, specifically regarding the MENA market
* Experience of pre-packed food development as well as experience implementing food-related programmes (recipe refinement, procurement, food techniques, market food trends, etc.)
* Full comprehension of food safety regulations.

The ideal candidate will possess visual merchandising experience and training in advanced food hygiene. You will be results focused and commercially oriented, with a talent for motivating and developing others. The ability to implement processes and document information effectively, combined with extensive sensory food knowledge are highly desirable traits for this role.

About the Company

As a leading international franchise operator, with nearly 90 of the world’s most recognised brands in its portfolio, Alshaya Group brings great shopping, dining, leisure and hospitality experiences to millions of customers across the Middle East & North Africa, Russia, Turkey, Europe and beyond.

Alshaya Group is a dynamic multinational business and family owned enterprise with a consistent record of growth and innovation. For 35 years, Alshaya has been a pioneering force in brand franchising, using its exceptional knowledge and experience to expand at pace.

Our portfolio of well-loved international brands includes Starbucks, H&M, Mothercare, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, P.F. Chang’s, The Cheesecake Factory, The Body Shop, M.A.C, Victoria’s Secret, Boots, Pottery Barn, KidZania and, coming soon, Hampton by Hilton.

From one retail franchise store opened in Kuwait in 1983, Alshaya Group has consistently grown and diversified and today offers customers an unparalleled choice of brands across multiple sectors; Fashion & Footwear, Health & Beauty, Food, Optics, Pharmacy, Home Furnishings, Leisure & Entertainment, and Hotels. A diverse, skilled team of 53,000 people from 120 nationalities support more than 4,000 stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure destinations, a growing online business and a commitment to delivering great customer experiences.