Head of Innovation in Milton Keynes

Head of Innovation in Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes Full-Time 95000 - 115000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
Alexander Steele Recruitment

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead innovative product development and enhance processes in a dynamic FMCG environment.
  • Company: Join a successful consumer goods manufacturer focused on innovation and growth.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, profit share, private healthcare, and relocation support.
  • Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for mentorship and professional growth.
  • Why this job: Drive impactful change and shape the future of products in a creative role.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in leadership with expertise in food technology or related fields.

The predicted salary is between 95000 - 115000 € per year.

A highly successful business within the consumer goods manufacturing sector (FMCG) is currently looking to appoint their next Head of Innovation.

The purpose of the Head of Innovation role is to drive the strategic execution of new product and process initiatives. This role involves leading the development and implementation of new solutions that enhance product quality, and respond to evolving market and customer demands to ensure the catalogue of products remains relevant. The Head of Innovation reports directly to the Managing Director but will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for growth, leverage company resources and harness emerging technologies to ensure the company remains at the forefront of industry advancements. This role suits a technically credible innovation leader who combines deep scientific understanding with commercial pragmatism, enjoys operating in ambiguity, and is motivated by turning ideas into scalable, profitable outcomes.

On Offer

  • £95,000 - £115,000 base salary
  • Profit share bonus scheme
  • Private healthcare
  • Enhanced pension
  • Relocation Support on offer

Role Responsibilities Include

  • This role is a key driver to deliver new products that empower innovation through big ideas. New approaches and same great quality (vision).
  • Collaborate with the Leadership Team to ensure innovation resources and activities are aligned with the business strategic objectives. The Head of Innovation has responsibility for delivering the innovation plan, prioritising end-to-end activity and managing project stage-gate decisions.
  • Mentor and lead innovation staff, supporting direct reports in meeting goals, role requirements, and competencies as per the company’s performance framework.
  • Leveraging experience and promoting creativity to support customer projects, pursuing the mission to deliver new ideas that empower innovation.
  • Leveraging experience and promoting creativity to the development of new products and processes.
  • Apply global market insight and regulatory awareness to prioritise innovation opportunities, support international customers, and anticipate emerging trends in food and beverage manufacturing.

Key Qualifications / Experience Required

  • Food Technology / Science, Brewing, Distilling related qualifications.
  • More than 10 years’ senior leadership experience in production, innovation / analytical role.
  • Advanced palette or sensory training.

If you would like to learn more about this fantastic opportunity, please apply directly with your most recent up to date CV, or call Richard at Alexander Steele Recruitment on 0131 370 9191.

Head of Innovation in Milton Keynes employer: Alexander Steele Recruitment

At Alexander Steele, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer within the FMCG sector, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and creativity. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our comprehensive training programmes and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that our team members thrive in their careers. With competitive salaries, profit-sharing bonuses, and relocation support, we provide a rewarding environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the world of consumer goods manufacturing.

Alexander Steele Recruitment

Contact Detail:

Alexander Steele Recruitment Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Innovation in Milton Keynes

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend relevant events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

Tip Number 2

Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or presentation that highlights your innovative projects and successes. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your value.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how you can articulate your experience in driving innovation and leading teams. Practice makes perfect, so get a friend to do a mock interview with you.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Innovation in Milton Keynes

Strategic Execution
New Product Development
Process Innovation
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Scientific Understanding
Commercial Pragmatism
Project Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Head of Innovation role. Highlight your experience in driving product innovation and any relevant qualifications in Food Technology or Science. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!

Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you’ve accomplished! Use specific examples of how you've led successful projects or initiatives that drove innovation. Numbers and outcomes can really make your application stand out.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story. Explain why you’re passionate about innovation in the FMCG sector and how your vision aligns with our company’s goals. We love seeing personality and enthusiasm!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Steele Recruitment

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you have a solid understanding of the consumer goods manufacturing sector, especially in relation to innovation. Brush up on recent trends and technologies that are shaping the industry. This will not only show your expertise but also your genuine interest in the role.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As the Head of Innovation, you'll be leading teams and driving projects. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led innovation initiatives or mentored team members. Highlight how you’ve turned ideas into profitable outcomes.

Align with Company Goals

Research the company’s strategic objectives and think about how your vision for innovation aligns with them. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their goals and enhance product quality while responding to market demands.

Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in ambiguous situations. Think of scenarios where you had to make tough decisions or pivot strategies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.