Head /Director of Operations - FMCG

Posted 15 hours 38 minutes ago by Michael Page (UK)

Permanent
Not Specified
Other
London, United Kingdom
Job Description
  • Pioneering Breakthrough Environmental Technology for a High-Impact FMCG Product
  • Rapidly Growing Start-Up in Commercialization Phase

About Our Client

My client is a pioneering environmental start-up within Personal Care FMCG. They are now transiting from a purely R&D-led company into full commercialization; soft launching into retail next week and hard launching in Q3. This Head/ Director of Operations will be instrumental in guiding the company through one of the most exciting phases of their journey.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

1. Supply Chain & Procurement



  • Lead RFQs, supplier validation, and first-order procurement


  • Build and consolidate supplier base across UK and Europe


  • Oversee deal sourcing and supplier relationship management


  • Own supplier approval and quality compliance processes


2. Manufacturing & Machinery Oversight



  • Manage end-to-end machine validation (from user requirements to site acceptance)


  • Work with our contract manufacturers to optimize production outputs and timelines


  • Implement ongoing improvements to the production line as products evolve


3. Quality & Compliance



  • Oversee interim Quality Management System (QMS)


  • Ensure purchasing specifications and supplier standards meet quality requirements


  • Manage change controls as product improvements affect production and supply chain


4. Cross-functional Leadership



  • Act as the connector between teams-from R&D to production to suppliers


  • Solve complex challenges by bringing the right stakeholders together


  • Own key operational projects from start to finish


  • Drive continuous improvement across all operational functions

The Successful Applicant

Top Skills & Experience:

  • 7-15+ years in operations, manufacturing, and/or supply chain ideally in FMCG or startup environments
  • Proven experience leading cross-functional teams and managing suppliers
  • Strong ability to navigate ambiguity and drive progress in a fast-paced environment
  • Comfortable running procurement, supplier consolidation, and machinery trials
  • Some exposure to quality systems and regulatory compliance


Soft Skills:
  • Generalist mindset with sharp problem-solving ability
  • Collaborative leader who values transparency and open dialogue
  • Hands-on, energetic, and solution-oriented-you don't just flag problems; you fix them
  • Comfortable wearing many hats and stepping into the unknown
  • Strong ownership mentality with the ability to manage multiple priorities

What's on Offer



  • Be part of a mission-led company disrupting the feminine hygiene industry


  • Join at a pivotal inflection point as we move into large-scale commercialization


  • Help build something truly world-first, with environmental impact at its core


  • Equity participation in a company poised for global expansion