Head of Food

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join an ambitious and innovative challenger brand as Head of Food. This fast-growing company are looking for a driven candidate who can enhance and deliver their innovation capabilities and identify opportunities to drive sales across retail channels. This role will suit someone from a commercial, innovation or broad supply chain/procurement background with the ability to commercialise NPD.

The responsibilities of the role include:

• Amplifying sales by developing the companies’ long term portfolio growth plan and executing the innovation pipeline across UK and global channels.
• Track product quality, costs, customer feedback, sales, and market trends to swiftly identify opportunities for enhancing existing products and boosting performance.
• Collaborate with other departments to manage product launches and designing packaging to enhance customer engagement and acquisition.
• Manage the prompt and high-quality launch of new products or modifications, ensuring they meet brand standards and cost expectations.
• Take responsibility for category performance by working closely with sales, RGM, and marketing teams to ensure successful product launches, optimal store placement, and effective promotional and trade marketing strategies.
• Lead a talented team of product developers.
• Develop products with a balanced approach, taking into account consumer needs, commercial viability, product safety, and sustainable supply chain complexity.
• Managing and optimising retail portfolio using insights gained through monitoring consumer behaviour, current trends and product performance.
• Ensure successful project delivery by clarifying roles and responsibilities within cross-functional teams, and collaborate closely with other functional directors and project leaders to align on project objectives and outcomes.

To be a successful Head of Food you will have:

• Prior experience in an innovation, commercial or supply chain role within FMCG, contributing to the launch and growth of previous companies.
• Proven track record proposing and implementing a long-term innovation pipeline across UK and global markets.
• Exceptional project management and leadership skills.
• Ability to analyse quantitative and qualitative data.
• The ability to drive opportunities for growth and engage stakeholders in delivering your vision.
• A self-motivated individual with an eye for detail and strong consumer focus.