Why a career in UK’s £105billion food industry could be a sweet idea for your next job
CHOCOLATE lovers will tuck into 80million Easter eggs this weekend – that’s almost ten per cent of the UK’s ANNUAL chocolate consumption.
So while the Easter Bunny is set to be busy, he has some stiff competition.
Having just delivered a dazzling array of sweet-themed treats for this year, product developers and managers are already focusing on what we will be enjoying for Easter 2026 and beyond.
This unique career combines having the creative idea for a new food product with sourcing it, ensuring it complies with strict food regulations then launching it in the competitive British market.
Product developers also have responsibility for improving current products and lead teams of chefs and technologists to get the job done.
While it may seem like a dream job, it is a vital one for the economy, too.
The food and drink industry is the UK’s biggest manufacturing sector by turnover, valued at £104.4billion, and it employs 450,000 people.
And the UK leads the world in food product innovation.
Rhys Cook is the Confectionery, Snacks and Biscuits Product Development Manager for Marks & Spencer and has helped launch customer favourites including Ralph the Cavapoo, Custard Creams and Loaded Easter Eggs.
He started with the firm as a graduate trainee before specialising in food development.
Rhys said: “It’s the best thing in the world to be able to shape the way the nation eats.
“You need to be passionate and excited by food and the brand you are working for. If you don’t feel excited about both then this is not the job for you.”
As a specialist product developer, you will need to be able to spot trends and work between 18 months to three years in advance to predict what the public will want to eat.
The most common route into the role is to take a food-related degree and starting salaries range from £30,000 to £40,000.
The average pay for an experienced manager is £50,000 to £60,000 but it is possible to earn much more at big manufacturers.
Rhys added: “You don’t need to be a Michelin-starred chef but you do need to be obsessed by food.
“Keep your eyes and ears open, absorb knowledge, try something new on a menu, follow food influencers and brands on social media and talk to family and friends.
“That’s how we anticipate those very early trends that might take hold. You might find inspiration in an unlikely place but translating that into a product takes skill.”
You can find out more about this at tastycareers.org.uk.
A SWEET CAREER
IT is a great job title – Florence McGivern is Chief Easter Officer at Mars Wrigley. She is already planning the firm’s Easter ranges for 2027 and 2028.
Florence, 34, from West London, said: “One of the best parts of my role is taste- testing our new products to ensure every single bunny and egg that hits the shelves is as delicious as possible.
“We work hard to keep all our Easter products exciting and relevant.
“As well as creativity and the tenacity to drive exciting new projects forward, you need your finger on the pulse to understand your audience and stay ahead of any emerging trends in the market.
“You don’t need specific qualifications, but having relevant experience in marketing or the food industry can help set you up for success.”
INSIDERS EDGE IN
UK firms are spending an average of 40 days filling every job vacancy – despite each role typically attracting 72 applications.
Research by SmartRecruiters found that job applications are usually reviewed in seven days, with interviews taking place 15 days after applications are received.
Just 4.3 per cent of candidates are invited to interview, with 1.1 per cent receiving offers. Yet just 84 per cent of job offers are accepted.
The study analysed 89million job applications internationally, with ten per cent of British jobs eventually filled internally.
SmartRecruiters’ Rebecca Carr said: “Internal recruitment often offers a lower risk and cost-effective route of recruiting and talent management.”
ADVICE ON WORKERS’ DEMENTIA RIGHTS
AROUND a million people are living with dementia in the UK, including more than 70,000 with young onset dementia, where symptoms develop before the age of 65.
Many will want to keep working so charity Dementia UK has published new expert advice.
Here the charity’s Dementia At Work specialist Victoria Lyons, explains how to help.
She said: “While maintaining work can be critical for managing finances, it isn’t just about earning money, it can provide a sense of purpose, satisfaction and a sense of normality.”
SHARE YOUR DIAGNOSIS WITH YOUR EMPLOYER: Dementia is classified as a disability in the Equality Act 2010 meaning a person with dementia is legally protected from discrimination.
To ensure these rights are recognised, it is advisable to share your diagnosis with your employer so they can make appropriate adjustments.
CARING? SHARE TOO: Equally, if you are caring for someone with dementia while working, talking to your employer may open up conversations around flexible working. Flexible Working Regulations require employers to consider these requests.
ADJUSTMENTS IN THE WORKPLACE: After an occupational health assessment, your employer should devise an employment action plan with your full involvement, including an evaluation of your current workload, taking into consideration how dementia affects your ability to do your job.
ALTERNATIVE OCCUPATIONS: Adjusting to new working patterns – or stopping work altogether – can be very difficult. It may be beneficial to find alternative occupation as work is important for maintaining wellbeing, giving a sense of purpose and routine, keeping socially connected and lifting mood and energy levels.
SELF-EMPLOYMENT: A diagnosis of dementia can have a big impact when you are self-employed. You may have to reduce your workload, allow extra time to complete tasks, make adaptations to your workspace, or eventually stop work altogether.
You may be able to claim certain benefits, including Employment Support Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Universal Credit and Disabled Facilities Grant.
Download the full guide from the dementiauk.org website.
JOBSPOT
FCC ENVIRONMENT has roles for industrial cleaners, fleet inspectors plus refuse and recycling loaders. Search at fccenvironment.co.uk/careers.
GET ON THE BOX
BREAK into TV with a bursary from the Royal Television Society.
There are two main schemes covering TV production and journalism, plus digital innovation for students interested in a career in digital media content production.
The schemes are open to undergraduates from low-income backgrounds or those studying at HND Level 5 or 6.
No experience is needed, but you will need to demonstrate your passion for pursuing a career in television, film, digital content production or related media industries.
Successful applicants will receive at least £1,500 in funding each year, free RTS membership, a mentor and free access to RTS events. Apply by June 24 at rts.org.uk.
JOBSPOT
SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC is recruiting 54 apprentices across engineering, commercial and customer service roles.
Apply at peoplefirst.getmyfirstjob.co.uk.