Sensory Panel Leader

About the Company

The organization is an international specialist in sensory and consumer research, focused on food, beverages, cosmetics, personal care, and other consumer goods. It operates 19 proprietary, modern facilities across France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, the United Kingdom, Morocco, China, and the USA, and reaches more than 65 countries through a network of approved partners.

Through tailored solutions, the team helps clients turn research findings into practical guidance that makes products and brands more memorable.

The business promotes a collaborative culture and offers the opportunity to develop your career with ongoing support, learning, and professional growth.

It is part of a global testing group employing around 61,000 people and recognized as a major international leader in testing services, driven by innovation and service quality.

Role Overview

The Sensory Panel Leader will organize, train, and supervise sensory panels so that product evaluation data is gathered accurately and consistently. The role is central to protecting data quality, improving panellist performance, and producing insights that support product development, quality control, and consumer research.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and train sensory panellists to take part in panel activities.
• Run panel sessions each day and make sure procedures are followed and results are recorded correctly.
• Observe panellists, provide coaching, and help maintain stable, reliable performance.
• Provide refresher training to existing panellists when needed.
• Review panel performance on a monthly basis.
• Help create a positive, focused, and productive panel atmosphere.
• Keep training documentation and proficiency records current.
• Ensure samples are prepared properly, presented correctly, and tested under the right environmental conditions.
• Use sensory software and tools, including Fizz Acquisition and EyeQuestion.
• Maintain accurate data entry and keep sensory information well organized.
• Look after the testing space, equipment, and cleanliness in line with SOPs.
• Support ongoing improvement of sensory procedures and documentation.
• Maintain ethical, impartial testing conditions.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in food science or a closely related field.
• At least 1–2 years of experience in sensory work or a quality assurance setting.
• Strong people skills and the ability to communicate clearly when coaching panellists and working with teams.
• Excellent attention to detail and a strong focus on data accuracy.
• Comfort with a fast-moving, detail-driven work environment.
• Familiarity with sensory software and basic statistical ideas such as ANOVA and PCA is an advantage.
• A patient, empathetic, and clear communication style.
• Confidence in giving feedback and leading group discussions.
• An analytical approach and interest in sensory science and human perception.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and project requirements.

Additional Information

No stipend or salary amount was specified in the source.