Are you interested in working in sensory research with one of the world's top FMCG companies? Then join MMR as a Sensory Panel Assistant!
This role is based at one of our clients' facilities in Utrecht, The Netherlands. You will report to the Senior Sensory Panel Leader and works closely with other Panel Leaders and the client's sensory team to support the day-to-day operation of MMR’s dedicated sensory panels within the client's Specialised Nutrition programme.
Panel operational support
- Prepare samples for sensory panel sessions, ensuring products are prepared accurately and according to study requirements.
- Prepare sensory booths, panel rooms and preparation areas before sessions and ensure all areas are restored following use.
- Manage preparation area logistics, including stock monitoring, ordering and receipt of consumables and materials.
- Maintain inventory systems and ensure traceability of materials and references.
- Ensure all activities comply with food safety and hygiene standards and the client's site procedures.
- Potential opportunity to support with internal panel activities.
Panel administration and coordination
- Prepare and maintain panel documentation, panel administration systems, databases and records.
- Coordinate routine communications with panellists and support day-to-day panel queries under supervision of the panel leaders.
- Support onboarding activities and administration linked to recruitment of new panellists.
- Assist with organisation of panel engagement activities and appreciation initiatives.
Study support
- Support questionnaire setup and session preparation activities (EyeQuestion).
- Prepare materials required for sensory studies and panel activities.
- Apply standard operating procedures consistently and escalate uncertainties where required.
- Support preparation of panel performance materials and documentation.
- Assist with preparation of sensory references and training materials.
Panel session support
- Provide support during panel sessions and sensory activities.
- Depending on experience and training level, support delivery of simple sensory sessions independently where appropriate.
- Provide basic cover support during absences where operationally required.
- Escalate operational issues, risks or deviations appropriately.
Continuous improvement
- Support ongoing improvement of preparation areas processes and ways of working.
- Identify operational inefficiencies and propose practical improvements.
- Support implementation of new operational processes where required.
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Degree in Food Science, Sensory Science or related discipline.
- Experience within sensory, food, laboratory or FMCG environments is desirable.
- Fluent Dutch required; basic English required.
- Strong organisational skills and high attention to detail.
- Strong planning and coordination capability.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong ownership mindset and willingness to learn.
- Competent with Microsoft Office systems.
- Sensory software platforms experience not required. Training will be provided.
We’re MMR Research Worldwide – the global sensory and consumer research experts behind many of the world’s biggest brands in food, drink, personal and household care. From bold new flavours to breakthrough product experiences, we help turn great ideas into products people truly love.
With teams across the UK, US, Asia and Africa, we blend science, creativity and curiosity to shape the future of everyday products. Join us and you’ll be part of a fast-growing, innovative company where your ideas matter and your career can thrive.
It’s our people that make all of this possible.
We are proud of our collaborative culture which is driven by strong leadership and offers industry-leading training and growth opportunities.
At MMR, we're committed to ensuring the happiness and well-being of each employee, regardless of where they are in the world! We offer a wide range of core and additional benefits. Competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and market-leading training opportunities are standard here. Our vibrant culture, talented team, and focus on employee wellbeing is what makes MMR so special.
We specialize in delivering innovative solutions and exceptional services to meet the diverse needs of our clients. With a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we strive to exceed expectations and drive success in every project we undertake.
