Sensory & Consumer Scientist

About the Position

Sensory & Consumer Scientist

Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, UK

The Sensory & Consumer Scientist leads sensory and consumer research for the EMEA Wet Flavour Solutions portfolio, supporting condiment innovation, optimisation, quality improvement, and customer projects from concept through launch. Partnering with R&D, Commercial, Marketing, and Quality teams, the role translates robust scientific insights into clear, actionable recommendations that enable confident business decisions.

Responsibilities

Business Partnering:

• Design, execute, and interpret fit-for-purpose sensory and consumer research to support product development, renovation, cost optimisation, quality improvement, and de-risking initiatives.
• Present clear findings and recommendations that help cross-functional teams make informed product and commercial decisions.

Customer and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Advise R&D, Commercial, and Marketing stakeholders, and where appropriate customers, on suitable research methodologies.
• Support customer presentations, technical discussions, proposals, and research plans, while delivering sensory and consumer science training to build understanding and capability.

Sensory and Consumer Science Excellence:

• Apply qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including focus groups, central location tests, and surveys, in line with recognised standards and best practices.
• Drive continuous improvement in research approaches, contribute to the EMEA and Global Sensory & Consumer Science community, and support data governance and stewardship for the Wet portfolio.

Requirements

• Degree in Sensory & Consumer Science, Food Science, or related discipline.
• Relevant experience in sensory and consumer science within FMCG (food preferably) and B2B.
• Proven ability to independently design and manage end-to-end research programmes.
• Strong statistical analysis capability with experience interpreting complex datasets.
• Confident presenter, able to communicate technical findings to cross-functional and customer stakeholders.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Effective influencer and collaborative team player, comfortable working across multicultural environments.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and sensory/consumer software (e.g., Compusense or equivalent).

We Offer

• Annual bonus
• Health cash plan
• Private medical insurance
• Pension
• Employee referral program
• Employee assistance program

About the Company

McCormick ensures compensation is determined in line with the principle of equal pay for work of equal value, regardless of gender. McCormick & Company is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Why Work at McCormick?

As a McCormick employee, you’ll be empowered to focus on more than your individual responsibilities. You’ll have the opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself-to have a say in where the company is going and how it’s growing.

Between our passion for flavor, our 130-year history of leadership and integrity, the competitive and comprehensive benefits we offer, and our culture, which is built on respect and opportunities for growth, there are many reasons to join us at McCormick.