Product Technologist - Hawthorn East

We’ve been trusted to serve Aussie communities since 1914 and grown to become a top 30-listed on the ASX with over 115,000 team members and a portfolio of iconic brands. At Coles Group, you’ll not only get to make a difference to millions of Aussie lives—you’ll also get to see your impact.

About the team

Our Coles Liquor team focuses on delivering exceptional products of outstanding quality and value across Liquorland, Liquorland Cellars and Liquorland Warehouse, with a network of more than 930 stores and ultra-convenient online sites, delivering on our commitment to provide accessible drink solutions for every occasion.

About the role

As a Product Technologist within the Liquor team you will be responsible for driving quality, whilst supporting product innovation. Working with a diverse supplier base, you will develop and implement world-class supplier quality management programs.

You will ensure emerging trends and opportunities are identified and incorporated into category develop plans, whilst also delivering the safety, legality, compliance, responsible sourcing, ethical sourcing and repeatable quality of Coles Own Exclusive Liquor Branded (ELB) products in their portfolio, in accordance with the Exclusive Liquor Brand strategy & product plan.

You’ll also:

• Land new and maintain current products, aligned to technical KPIs, compelling competitive claims, brand guidelines & activity plan
• Utilise feedback sources (complaints, returns, regulator contacts, DC and store feedback) to promptly action adverse product performance or compliance. 
• Initiate product withdrawal and recall processes for categories under your remit
• Deliver new packaging and packaging updates regarding content and design
• Work collaboratively with suppliers to deliver ELB sustainability commitments, and act as a supplier interface for ELB waste, loss and availability 

About you and your skills

You will have significant industry experience in the product area and demonstrated experience working in retail or liquor service supply base.

You’ll also need: 

• Bachelor Degree in Food Science, Viticulture or a related field i.e. Microbiology or Chemistry
• WSET level 2 or level 3 in Wine or Spirits is highly regarded
• Significant relevant experience in liquor or related subject matter expertise within a compliance vocation
• Technical management SME (Subject Matter Expertise) with proven experience in the liquor industry or related area
• Proven experience in supplier management, investigations, audit response and data analysis
• Experience working with both international and local suppliers to deliver product innovation and essential safety controls
• Strong planning, time management, communication and influencing skills

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What’s in it for you?

• Flexible working options: We know that work is only one part of your life, so we actively encourage a positive work-life balance and provide hybrid working options to help you achieve it.
• Office perks: Take advantage of our gym facility and fitness classes, free parking, BBQ area, mini-Coles supermarket, fooderie hub where you can sample new products before they hit the shelves, school holiday program and so much more when you come in.
• Discounts: Eligible team members receive 5% discount all year round on your Supermarket and Liquor online and in-store purchases. We also offer additional periods of double discount (10%) at various times throughout the year. As well as hotdeals exclusive to team members that translate into additional savings.
• Reward through recognition: Give and receive recognition, linked to our Coles values, through our digital recognition platform ‘mythanks’. You can accumulate points to redeem in the online shop for exciting gifts and electronic gift cards from an extensive range of retailers.
• Opportunities for learning and development: No matter where you start within our diverse business, you’ll have experiences, exposure, and education to satisfy you. Discover and explore a variety of career development programs and job-specific training.
• Paid parental leave: We understand how important your life outside work is and offer permanent team members paid parental leave to support you in balancing work and family.
• Investment in your future: Our annual team member share plan offer allows eligible team members to make regular pre-tax salary sacrifice deductions to purchase Coles Group shares.

About the recruitment process

We’re continuing to build a gender equitable team, and a culture that is just as diverse, inclusive and welcoming as the communities we serve. We are committed to creating a workplace that is safe and respectful for our team. We encourage applications from people of all ages, cultures (including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), abilities, sexual orientation and gender identities.

We’re happy to adjust our recruitment process to support candidates with disability. For further information and additional contact details visit the ‘Our Recruitment Process’ section of our careers site or email inclusionrecruitment@coles.com.au

Job ID: 158004

Employment Type: Full time