Head /Director of Operations - FMCG

Michael Page (UK); City Of London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering environmental start-up is seeking a Director of Operations to lead supply chain and procurement efforts. This role requires 7-15 years of experience in operations, preferably in FMCG or startup environments. You will be instrumental in guiding the company through its commercialization phase, managing supplier relationships, and driving continuous improvement across operational functions. The position offers a unique opportunity to make a sustainable impact on the industry.

Benefits

Equity participation in a mission-led company

Opportunity to join during a pivotal commercialization phase

Work focused on environmental impact

Qualifications

• 7-15+ years in operations, manufacturing, 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead RFQs, supplier validation, and first-order procurement.
• Manage end-to-end machine validation and optimize production outputs.
• Oversee interim Quality Management System and ensure supplier standards meet quality requirements.

Job description

About Our Client

My client is a pioneering environmental start-up within Personal Care FMCG. They are transitioning from an 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 this exciting phase.

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 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
• 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