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- Tasks: Lead sustainability initiatives and ensure compliance in Dole UK's retail operations.
- Company: Join Dole PLC, a global leader in fresh produce with a commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive package and opportunities for travel across the UK.
- Why this job: Shape the future of food while making a positive impact on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
- Qualifications: Seeking an experienced leader with a strategic mindset and knowledge of UK retail standards.
- Other info: Be part of pioneering R&D projects and represent Dole at industry levels.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Overview
Exclusive Opportunity: UK Technical & Sustainability Director – Dole PLC
Location: UK with regular travel to Kent and other locations
We are proud to be exclusively partnered with Dole PLC, one of the world’s leading producers and marketers of fresh fruit and vegetables, in their search for a Technical & Sustainability Director to spearhead a transformational agenda primarily across their UK Retail division, and Wholesale, Foodservice, and JV businesses.
This is a career-defining opportunity for a highly strategic, commercially aware, and values-driven leader to shape the future of technical compliance, food safety, sustainability and ethical sourcing at one of the most respected names in global fresh produce.
Responsibilities
- Lead the strategic direction for technical, ethical, and sustainability compliance across Dole UK’s retail operations, ensuring full alignment with the Dole Global Food Standard and UK retail customers.
- Champion sustainability and responsible sourcing initiatives by embedding Dole Plc’s global ESG ambitions into measurable UK targets, with direct involvement in projects shaping the future of food.
- Define and monitor performance through robust KPI frameworks across food safety, health & safety, sustainability, and ethical trade platforms including the likes of SEDEX.
- Act as the authority on technical legislation, audit compliance (Red Tractor, GG, LEAF), and food safety governance to drive due diligence and continuous improvement across the supply base.
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships with UK retailers, growers, and industry bodies, acting as the senior interface to influence policy, respond to challenges, and elevate the Dole brand.
- Develop and implement a long-term technical & compliance roadmap, supporting cross-functional innovation, product development, and alignment with customer CSR agendas.
- Line manage and mentor divisional leads across Technical, Ethical and R&D functions, fostering a culture of performance, innovation, and accountability across the group.
- Support pioneering R&D work, including Dole UK’s Future of Food programme and new product categories such as the European berry business.
- Represent Dole PLC at industry level, providing thought leadership on sustainability, ethical trade and technical excellence to maintain Dole’s position as a global category leader.
- Drive technical knowledge-sharing across EMEA regions, supporting harmonisation of sustainability targets and compliance standards in a collaborative, future-focused environment.
Qualifications / Who You Are
You are a seasoned Technical and Sustainability Director, highly regarded across the industry for your strategic mindset, retail-facing experience, and ability to integrate commercial and ethical priorities. You bring practical agronomy know-how, deep knowledge of UK retailer expectations, and a passion for driving lasting impact in food systems.
How to Apply
If you believe you have the skills and personality to fit these requirements please either apply via this advert or call Henderson Brown on 01733 235 111 for more information.
Additional Information
- Seniority level: Director
- Employment type: Full-time
- Job function: Quality Assurance, Product Management, and Manufacturing
- Industries: Food and Beverage Services, Food and Beverage Manufacturing, and Food and Beverage Retail
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Technical and Sustainability Director employer: Dole plc
Contact Detail:
Dole plc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical and Sustainability Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the food and sustainability sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or conferences where you can meet key players and learn about the latest trends. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also increase your visibility to potential employers like Dole PLC.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest regulations and standards related to food safety and sustainability. Familiarise yourself with frameworks like SEDEX and Red Tractor, as well as Dole's global ESG ambitions. This knowledge will position you as a knowledgeable candidate who can contribute immediately.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your leadership skills by sharing examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your experience in fostering a culture of performance and innovation, which is crucial for a role that involves mentoring divisional leads.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Dole PLC’s current initiatives and challenges in the UK market. Tailor your discussions during interviews to show how your strategic vision aligns with their goals, particularly in areas like ethical sourcing and sustainability. This will showcase your genuine interest in the company and its mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical and Sustainability Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in technical compliance, sustainability, and leadership roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic mindset and ability to drive change in food systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainability and ethical sourcing. Address how your background aligns with Dole PLC's values and the key responsibilities of the Technical & Sustainability Director role.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements related to food safety, sustainability initiatives, and compliance frameworks. This will help illustrate your impact in previous roles.
Research Dole PLC: Familiarise yourself with Dole PLC’s mission, values, and recent initiatives in sustainability and ethical sourcing. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your application and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dole plc
✨Research Dole PLC
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research Dole PLC. Understand their values, mission, and recent initiatives in sustainability and technical compliance. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the role's focus on technical legislation and food safety governance, be ready to discuss specific regulations and standards like Red Tractor and SEDEX. Prepare examples from your past experience that showcase your expertise in these areas.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a potential leader, it's crucial to highlight your experience in managing teams and driving performance. Be prepared to share examples of how you've mentored others and fostered a culture of innovation and accountability in previous roles.
✨Discuss Sustainability Initiatives
Dole is looking for someone who can champion sustainability. Be ready to discuss your previous work in this area, including any measurable outcomes you've achieved. Highlight your understanding of ESG ambitions and how you can embed them into the company's operations.