Good process technologists are key in NPD

Everyone knows that a development chef or an 'ideas person' is the key to innovative concepts. But few appreciate that a great process technologist is central to a successful new product development (NPD) launch.

Someone who understands the challenges of scaling up a single serving to a thousand or more servings is invaluable. It is a job that requires far more skills than many realise not enough people within manufacturing have all the skills required to make a great process technologist.

A technologist needs to have experience, the ability to get the best from colleagues, factory knowledge, intuition and confidence to find another solution when conventional solutions have not succeeded. A food science background and an understanding of culinary techniques also often help, but to make the package complete good process technologists also need to have the ability and confidence to think on their feet. For example, they need to be able to turn a factory trial that is going in the wrong direction round, so that they deliver a product that surpasses the expectations of the customer.

Outstanding examples are very rare. An experienced process technologist may often be the most important person in guiding successful NPD and ensuring company growth and profitability. Talented ones are in short supply and should you be lucky enough to have a great one, appreciate them. Ensure they are given the opportunity to cascade their knowledge and experience to another heir apparent.

Most companies struggle to recruit a good chef who understands the challenges of food manufacturing, but an exceptional process technologist, who embraces the motto 'nothing is impossible', may be the most valuable team member in generating consistent, good quality and profitable products.