The Panel Assistant reports to the Senior Sensory Panel Leader and works closely with other Panel Leader and the FloraFG sensory team to support the day-to-day operation of MMR’s dedicated sensory panels within FloraFG.
The role provides operational, logistical and administrative support to ensure the smooth running of sensory panel activities and continuity of programme delivery. Takes ownership of preparation, logistics and coordination activities.
The role combines preparation area operations, panel administration and study support responsibilities and is critical in maintaining high standards of panel execution and operational efficiency.
This will be a part-time role on a 0.5 FTE basis. It is a temporary position with the potential to grow into a longer-term role. The schedule is to be determined.
Panel operational support
- Take full ownership of sample preparation activities 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 FloraFG site procedures
- Potentially 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 planned and unplanned 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
- Contribute to maintaining SOPs and documentation standards (ISO certified lab environment)
- Support implementation of new operational processes where required
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Strong interest in Sensory Science; prior experience in the field is highly desirable
- Confident communicator with the ability to express ideas clearly
- Collaborative team player who works well in multidisciplinary settings
- Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively
- Fluent in English (spoken and written)
Success in this role will be demonstrated through:
- smooth and reliable execution of panel operations
- effective ownership of sample preparation and logistics
- high-quality panel administration and documentation
- proactive support to Senior Panel Leaders
- contribution to stable, efficient and high-performing sensory programme delivery
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.
