Our client is a leading global supplier of premium fruit and vegetable ingredients, drawing on more than 150 years of expertise across the agro-supply chain. Their collective knowledge and close collaboration with partner farmers, customers, and suppliers makes them the go-to ingredients supplier for leading food and beverage manufacturers worldwide.
As part of a respected international group, they operate modern processing facilities across Europe and are embarking on an ambitious growth journey to double their business within the next five years.
We are seeking a dynamic Head of Sourcing to complete and lead their international sourcing team. This pivotal role combines strategic leadership with operational excellence, overseeing sourcing operations across the EMEA region.
In this position, you will lead a team of seven full-time professionals scattered across Poland, Spain, and the Benelux region, driving sourcing strategies that support ambitious growth targets. Your strategic vision and hands-on approach will be essential in achieving the goal of doubling the business within five years.
This role requires a proactive, energetic team builder who consistently makes decisions based on the global picture and concrete facts while maintaining a strong focus on operational execution.
Requirements
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement comprehensive sourcing strategies across the EMEA region aligned with aggressive growth ambitions
- Translate strategic plans into seamless, everyday operational excellence
- Contribute to an evolving culture of innovation and relentless pursuit of growth targets in a competitive international setting
Team Management
Lead and motivate a diverse team of 10 FTE professionals across multiple locationsFoster a collaborative and high-performance environment in a geographically dispersed settingDevelop team members' capabilities and drive professional growthOperational Excellence
Serve as a strong negotiator and fact-based decision makerBe ready to take bold steps and make tough decisions when necessaryEnsure continuous supply of premium processed fruit and vegetable ingredients to valued customersNavigate seasonality and supply chain complexities within the fresh produce sectorEssential Requirements
Master's degree in a related field (Supply Chain, Business, Agriculture, Food Science)Minimum 5 years of industry-specific experience with deep understanding of the fruit and vegetable businessProven track record of leading teams in diverse, multi-location environmentsStrong negotiation skills and commercial acumenDeep understanding of seasonality and supply chains within the fresh produce sectorKey Competencies
Strategic thinking with ability to dive into detailed operational challengesPassionate about driving and scaling business efforts with a clear growth mindsetExcellent communication and leadership skills across cultures and languagesAbility to thrive in a fast-paced, international environmentResults-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilitiesPreferred Qualifications
Experience in fruit and vegetables and / or food ingredients, processing, or related agro-industrial sectorsKnowledge of EMEA agricultural markets and seasonal patternsProven success in high-growth business environmentsMultilingual capabilities (English essential, additional European languages advantageous)Benefits
Compensation & Benefits
Attractive salary package with additional benefitsPerformance-based incentives aligned with growth targetsComprehensive benefits packageWork Environment
Flexibility to work in a hybrid model for optimal work-life balanceModern office facilities and inspiring work environmentInternational setting with extensive growth opportunitiesCollaborative culture where teamwork and positive atmosphere are keyProfessional Development
Opportunity to shape strategy in a rapidly growing organizationExposure to cutting-edge practices in the global food ingredients industryLeadership role with significant impact and visibilityAccess to international networks and industry expertiseReady to Lead Our Growth?
This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned sourcing professional to take on a leadership role in an established, growing company with ambitious plans. You'll be joining at an exciting time of expansion and will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the business.
If you're passionate about the food ingredients industry, have a proven track record in sourcing leadership, and are excited by the challenge of doubling a business, we'd love to hear from you.
Our client is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.