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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.
- Other info: Be part of pioneering projects like Dole UK's Future of Food programme.
- Why this job: Shape the future of food while making a real impact on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
- Qualifications: Seeking an experienced leader with a strategic mindset and knowledge of UK retail standards.
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 help you demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by engaging in community projects or initiatives that focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. This hands-on experience will not only enrich your CV but also provide concrete examples to discuss in interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Dole PLC thoroughly, including their recent projects and sustainability goals. Tailor your discussions to align with their values and objectives, demonstrating how your vision for technical compliance and sustainability can contribute to their 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. Explain how your background aligns with Dole PLC's values and their commitment to global ESG ambitions.
Highlight Key Achievements: In your application, emphasise key achievements related to food safety, sustainability initiatives, and partnerships with retailers. Use metrics where possible to illustrate the impact of your work.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of technical legislation and compliance standards relevant to the role. Mention any experience with frameworks like SEDEX or certifications such as Red Tractor, GG, or LEAF.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dole plc
✨Research Dole PLC Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure to dive deep into Dole PLC's values, mission, and recent initiatives. Understanding their approach to sustainability and technical compliance will help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led sustainability initiatives or navigated complex compliance challenges.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Technical and Sustainability Director, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you mentor teams, foster innovation, and drive accountability. Highlight any successful projects where your leadership made a significant impact.
✨Demonstrate Industry Knowledge
Stay updated on current trends in food safety, sustainability, and ethical sourcing. Being able to discuss recent developments or challenges in the industry will show your passion and commitment to the role, making you a more attractive candidate.