At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead St Michel's growth in the UK & Ireland, driving strategy and business development.
- Company: Join a fast-growing French family business known for quality gourmet products.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for international travel.
- Other info: Based in London with opportunities for career advancement and international exposure.
- Why this job: Be part of a brand voted France’s favourite and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in FMCG/retail, strong negotiation skills, and a passion for growth.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
A key player in the French biscuits, cakes and ready to fill sectors, St Michel is a fast-growing French independent family business. Our 8 factories are located in France and our products are sold internationally, in over 100 countries. St Michel handles the production and marketing of the Bonne Maman brand’s ranges of cakes. Besides, St Michel was voted France’s favourite brand, all categories! Our trademark? We invent and manufacture gourmet products, paying particular attention to the quality of the ingredients and their origins, as well as taking into account the producers, animal welfare and the environment. Our CSR approach “Le Goût de la Transmission” is at the heart of everything we do. At St Michel, we are driven by a single goal: be the world leader of French-style cakes.
As part of its international expansion, St Michel is creating a position of Country Manager for its subsidiary in the United Kingdom. Reporting to the Director of International Development, the Country Manager UK & Ireland develops St Michel’s business across the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, with responsibility for commercial growth, profitability, marketing investments and team performance. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on commercial expertise and financial accountability. You will oversee business development across different channels, including Retail and Private Labels.
Your main responsibilities:
- Business Strategy & Development
- Define and execute the UK & Ireland strategy, aligned with St Michel’s international ambitions.
- Develop annual business plans and identify opportunities across branded and private label activities.
- Ensure effective execution of commercial and marketing plans in coordination with internal departments.
- Negotiation
- Lead major and complex negotiations with key retailers, distributors and strategic partners.
- Build and maintain relationships with senior customer decision-makers.
- Prepare and manage budgets, forecasts and financial performance reviews.
- Identify performance gaps and implement corrective actions to achieve financial objectives.
- Management
- Lead, motivate and develop the UK & Ireland team, setting clear objectives and responsibilities.
The position is based in London (office in Camden). Travelling within the UK & Ireland and occasionally to our Headquarters in France is to be expected.
You have a higher education qualification in business, with a minimum of 15 years’ significant experience in a FMCG/retail-related position (head office and field). A very good knowledge of the UK & Ireland Retail market is essential. International experience and exposure to strategic account management within the Food industry, ideally Food manufacturing, are highly desired. You are recognised for your excellent organisational, negotiation and relationship-building skills, your entrepreneurial mindset, agility and ability to identify growth opportunities. You have strong analytical skills and ability to translate data into business decisions (advanced Excel level). Speaking French would be a plus, given the close interaction with the Group’s French headquarters.
Country Manager UK & Ireland (M/F) in London employer: Biscuiterie Saint-Michel
Biscuiterie Saint-Michel is a fast-growing independent family business that values quality ingredients and sustainability. The company fosters a collaborative work environment, encouraging professional growth and development. Employees benefit from being part of a brand recognized as France's favorite, with a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Country Manager UK & Ireland (M/F) in London
✨Join Food Science Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Country Manager UK & Ireland (M/F) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Biscuiterie Saint-Michel, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Biscuiterie Saint-Michel.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Biscuiterie Saint-Michel. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Biscuiterie Saint-Michel. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Biscuiterie Saint-Michel
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Biscuiterie Saint-Michel’s mission.
