Commercial Director

Commercial Director – Islands Chocolate

Islands Chocolate is a pioneering family – owned business leading Britain's new wave chocolate movement since 2018. We're one of the UK's only truly farm-to-bar producers, growing our own cocoa in the Caribbean and directly sourcing across Central America, controlling every stage from bean to finished product.

Our award – winning chocolates (4 Great Taste Awards 2022, 3 Academy of Chocolate Awards) are trusted by Michelin-starred restaurants, premium bakeries, luxury hotels, and specialist retailers across the UK.

What makes us unique is our complete vertical integration – from Caribbean cocoa farms through manufacturing to delivery – ensuring exceptional quality and full traceability whilst supporting sustainable, ethical practices throughout our supply chain.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Director to drive commercial excellence across our three integrated business units: cocoa farming, manufacturing, and chocolate brand operations. This is a pivotal leadership role working directly with the CEO to implement commercial strategy and deliver exceptional financial performance.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Partner with the CEO to develop and implement commercial strategy across all business units
• Drive strategic commercial planning and execution to maximize revenue and profitability
• Lead cross-business unit commercial coordination to optimize our vertically integrated operations

Financial Accountability



• Take full P&L ownership and accountability for commercial performance across the group
• Drive revenue optimisation and margin management initiatives
• Deliver consistent financial results and commercial KPI achievement

Sales Leadership & Operations

• Work closely with the Global Sales Director to drive growth and commercial excellence
• Lead, manage, and develop high-performing sales teams across all business units
• Establish performance accountability frameworks and drive results
• Standardise and continuously improve sales processes and methodologies
• Conduct complex contract negotiations and ensure successful deal closure

Market Intelligence & Positioning

• Conduct comprehensive market analysis and competitive positioning
• Work closely with brand, marketing, and cocoa teams to identify market trends and opportunities
• Identify and capitalise on commercial opportunities across all business units
• Drive strategic commercial initiatives that leverage our integrated value chain

Skills & Experience Required:

• Proven track record in senior commercial leadership roles within FMCG, retail, or food and beverage sectors
• Strong strategic planning and execution capabilities, including full commercial P&L ownership
• Deep experience across multi-channel growth: retail, foodservice, D2C, and international distribution
• Skilled in building and managing high-performing cross-functional teams
• Expertise in partnership development, contract negotiation, and licensing models
• Hands-on experience in scaling e-commerce platforms and digital customer engagement
• Familiarity with investment processes and commercial due diligence
• Strong communicator with experience in board-level stakeholder engagement
• Passion for ethical sourcing, sustainability, and purpose-led brand growth
• Adept at operating in entrepreneurial, high-growth environments
• Excellent Excel and forecasting skills