Strategic Project Manager

The Compleat Food Group; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the food industry is seeking a Group Strategic Project Manager based in Nottingham. This role involves leading strategic projects that focus on process improvements and cost optimization, requiring strong project management skills, cross-functional collaboration, and a passion for food manufacturing. Join us in shaping the future of chilled prepared food in the UK.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in project management within food manufacturing or FMCG.
• Successful track record of delivering projects on time and budget.
• Knowledge of food production, packaging systems, and QA standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of strategic projects across multiple UK manufacturing sites.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams (Operations, Technical, Procurement).
• Define scope, goals, timelines, and budgets for each project.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Communication

Education

Formal PM qualification (e.g. PRINCE2, PMP)

Tools

MS Project

Smartsheet

Job description

Based in Nottingham, with regular travel across UK manufacturing sites

Salary: £55,000 – £60,000 + Car Allowance + benefits

Full-time | Permanent

Are you an experienced project leader with a passion for food manufacturing and driving strategic change?

We’re looking for a Group Strategic Project Manager to join the central Project Management Office at The Compleat Food Group, based from our Nottingham site.

You’ll lead high-impact, cross-functional projects that support our strategic ambitions – from product transfers and packaging changes to cost optimisation and process improvements.

This is a pivotal role working closely with our Executive and Management Board to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of strategic projects across multiple UK manufacturing sites
• Coordinate cross-functional teams (Operations, Technical, Procurement, NPD, Finance, Commercial)
• Define scope, goals, timelines, budgets, and resources for each project
• Proactively manage risks, communicate progress, and report into senior stakeholders
• Ensure projects uphold food safety, legal compliance, and product quality standards
  
  

Types of Projects You’ll Own

• Site transfers and production line consolidations
• Complex NPD or EPD requiring significant process/packaging changes
• Procurement-driven raw material and packaging changes
• Technology or equipment upgrades
• Projects involving outsourced manufacturing partners
  
  

Essential

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in project management within food manufacturing or FMCG
• Successful track record of delivering cross-functional projects on time and on budget
• Knowledge of food production, packaging systems, and QA standards
• Strong communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills
• Proficiency in project tools (MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar)
  
  

Desirable

• Formal PM qualification (e.g. PRINCE2, PMP)
• Lean, Six Sigma, or CI methodology experience
• Familiarity with BRC, HACCP, and UK retailer standards
  
  

You’ll Thrive In This Role If You Are

• Strategic yet hands-on
• Naturally collaborative and commercially aware
• Resilient, adaptable, and outcome-focused
• Passionate about food and quality
• Confident working with senior stakeholders and influencing at all levels
  
  

Why Join The Compleat Food Group?

We're building a modern, sustainable food business where your work will have a real and lasting impact. Join us on our journey to shape the future of chilled prepared food in the UK.

Apply today and lead strategic transformation projects that deliver real business value.

Apply now