Director/ Head of Operations - FMCG Start Up

Michael Page (UK); London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading FMCG start-up is seeking a talented Supply Chain Manager to drive operational excellence as they expand. This role offers the chance to lead supplier management, oversee quality systems, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership and project management skills, with an emphasis on continuous improvement. A competitive salary and equity stake in the high-growth company is offered, along with flexible hybrid working arrangements.

Benefits

Significant equity stake

Flexible hybrid working, 2-3 days per week on site

Culture valuing transparency and ownership

Qualifications

• Proven ability to drive change and manage complex projects effectively.
• Strong people and relationship management skills.
• Experience in machine/process validation and supplier vetting.

Responsibilities

• Lead RFQs, sourcing, and vetting of initial suppliers.
• Manage contract manufacturers ensuring operational efficiency.
• Oversee supplier consolidation to stabilize the supply chain.

Skills

Leadership skills

Project management

Supplier vetting

Quality Management System (QMS)

Change management

Continuous improvement mindset

Job description

• Exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing, innovative FMCG business!
• End to end Supply Chain experience and strong leadership skills required.

About Our Client

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.

Job 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.

The Successful Applicant

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.

What's on 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