Director/ Head of Operations - FMCG Start Up

This role will lead the end to end Supply Chain and Operations for the business. Our client is a start up personal care business, projecting c.£30mil t/o in the next few years. The successful candidate will have strong leadership skills, be continuous improvement focused, and take full ownership of the Supply Chain & Operations.

Client Details

Our client is a start-up business redefining sustainability in personal care. With strong traction from UK high street giants and global interest brewing, they are now scaling from innovation into full commercialisation.

Description

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead RFQs, sourcing, and vetting of initial suppliers to establish a reliable supply base.
• Manage contract manufacturers across the UK and Europe, ensuring operational efficiency and quality.
• Oversee supplier consolidation to streamline and stabilise the supply chain as the company grows.
• Run machine acceptance, validation, and coordinate ongoing upgrades in partnership with engineering teams.
• Take interim ownership of the Quality Management System (QMS) and ensure compliance with supplier approvals and purchasing specifications.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, commercial, and technical teams to align operations with product development and business goals.
• Facilitate smooth cross-functional communication and support successful retail and international product launches.

Profile

The successful candidate would have:

• Proven ability to drive change and manage complex projects effectively.
• Strong people and relationship management skills, aligning teams and partners toward common goals.
• Solution-focused with a a continuous improvement mindset, comfortable navigating ambiguity and change.
• Experience in machine/process validation, procurement, and supplier vetting.
• Familiarity with quality systems and technical operations; QMS or supplier approval experience is a plus.
• Collaborative, open-minded approach that encourages discussion and continuous improvement.
• Willingness to travel across the UK and Europe to support suppliers and manufacturers.

Job Offer

On offer to the candidate:

• c.£80,000 - £100,000 (experience dependent) per annum
• Significant equity stake in a high-growth company
• Flexible hybrid working, 2-3 day pw on site
• A culture that values transparency, curiosity, and ownership