Tastemakers of The Compleat Food Group: Ellen Gamble, Product Development Manager

At The Compleat Food Group, our Tastemakers series shines a spotlight on the incredible people driving our deliciousness agenda. From idea generation to innovation, these are the individuals shaping the future of food.

This month, we’re introducing Ellen Gamble, Product Development Manager, whose passion for food and creativity brings some of our most exciting products to life.

What’s the most unique part of your job?

No two days are ever the same! Some days I’m in the kitchen creating delicious new products or in the factory overseeing the first production of a new launch.

Other days, I’m exploring places like San Sebastián, discovering the best tortilla and pintxos for inspiration. And sometimes, I’m brainstorming exciting ideas for future launches across our brands.

How would you describe your role to someone outside the food industry?

It’s amazing how few people understand how food gets onto supermarket shelves! Essentially, that’s what I help do. From idea generation to recipe creation and product finalisation, I develop food products from concept to launch.

Tell us about your career journey so far

My love for food product development began during a six-week summer placement as a development coordinator at TMI Foods. It was truly fascinating, and I knew right then this was the career path for me.

I returned to TMI during university for a year-long placement, and after graduating, I joined Bakkavor, where I spent five years developing chilled ready meals for M&S.

Now, I’m at The Compleat Food Group, looking after some of our branded portfolio including Unearthed and Vadasz, a role I love that keeps me inspired every day.

What’s been your proudest moment at The Compleat Food Group?

Seeing a new product hit the shelves is always a proud moment. But winning Great Taste awards and The Grocer New Product & Packaging Awards this year is an extra highlight!

Product development is never straightforward, so it’s especially rewarding when all that hard work is recognised. Not just by consumers and sales, but by the industry too.

Are there any unique challenges in your role?

The Unearthed brand is all about enjoying food the Mediterranean way. This means sourcing the very best ingredients and products from across regions.

Working with suppliers spread across multiple countries brings challenges, but the quality and authenticity we get in return always make it worth it.

What’s the most unusual ingredient or technique you’ve worked with?

We’re always exploring products with exciting regional stories, from French ham wrapped in muslin for extra succulence and flavour, to traditional Italian treats like Pasticciotto.

One of my personal favourites is the Unearthed Serrano and Iberico Rosca. It’s a Spanish staple but a UK first to market! Essentially, it’s a giant sandwich made with Pan de Cristal, a unique, high-hydration dough known for its crisp crust and light, airy centre.

What’s a food-related fact that might surprise people?

It costs Action Against Hunger £42 to save the life of a malnourished child. To date, the Unearthed brand has saved the lives of over 30,000 children, donating 1p per pack to Action Against Hunger.

What’s one Compleat product you always have in your kitchen?

I have two staples: Vadasz Garlic & Dill Fresh Pickles for a flavour boost to salads or toasties, and Unearthed Pastel De Nata, a favourite weekend treat in my house.

Want to learn more about the people behind your favourite products? Find out more about our passionate cheesemaker George Bramham here.

Stay tuned for more stories from our Tastemakers series, where we celebrate the creativity and passion that make The Compleat Food Group truly delicious.