Head /Director of Operations - FMCG

Michael Page (UK); London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering environmental startup is seeking a Head/Director of Operations to lead the transition into full commercialization. This role involves overseeing supply chain management, manufacturing processes, and ensuring quality compliance as the company aims to disrupt the feminine hygiene industry with innovative solutions.

Benefits

Equity participation

Opportunity to join at a pivotal inflection point

Mission-led company

Qualifications

• 7-15+ years in operations, manufacturing, and/or supply chain ideally in FMCG or startup environments.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing suppliers.
• Exposure to quality systems and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Collaboration

Supplier Management

Procurement

Quality Compliance

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

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  Lead RFQs, supplier validation, and first-order procurement
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  Build and consolidate supplier base across UK and Europe
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  Oversee deal sourcing and supplier relationship management
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  Own supplier approval and quality compliance processes

2. Manufacturing & Machinery Oversight

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  Manage end-to-end machine validation (from user requirements to site acceptance)
• 
  
  Work with our contract manufacturers to optimize production outputs and timelines
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  Implement ongoing improvements to the production line as products evolve

3. Quality & Compliance

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  Oversee interim Quality Management System (QMS)
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  Ensure purchasing specifications and supplier standards meet quality requirements
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  Manage change controls as product improvements affect production and supply chain

4. Cross-functional Leadership

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

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  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