At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Hershey's external manufacturing and co-packing strategy across Europe.
- Company: Join a global leader in confectionery with iconic brands like Reese’s and Jolly Rancher.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities and a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on supply chain strategies for beloved brands.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in supply chain management; experience with co-manufacturing preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60750 - 74250 £ per year.
This position is responsible for end-to-end ownership of supply from external manufacturing and co-packing partners outside Hershey’s internal manufacturing network, with a primary focus on Europe. The role will lead the external manufacturing and co-packing strategy across Europe to support Hershey’s growth ambitions, including Reese’s, Jolly Rancher, and other priority brands.
The role serves as Hershey’s focal point for all activities related to external co-manufacturing and co-packing operations in Europe. This includes managing the established co-manufacturer and co-packer network, overseeing contracts, resolving operational issues related to payments and supply constraints, managing partner relationships, and identifying, evaluating, and onboarding new external manufacturing partners to support NPD and business development opportunities. The primary markets include Hershey’s Europe, MEA, and WTR regions. The role will also support product supply from external manufacturing locations to other regions, including APAC and Canada, by confirming supply feasibility, product costs, outbound logistics requirements, and related operational considerations.
This role will work closely with Procurement on sourcing strategies for critical components such as chocolate paste, peanut crème, and packaging to support the external manufacturing and co-packing network. The role will also partner with Supply Chain teams to ensure supply adherence and lead discussions with external partners on supply and demand changes. Likewise, the role holder would also work with Stakeholder and support functions such as Finance, Legal, QRC, Responsible sourcing and Regulatory teams to ensure compliance for the co mfg and copack locations.
This role reports to the Director, Supply Chain EMEA & WTR and is supported by a team overseeing key aspects of the external manufacturing network, including Account management (partner contracting, commercial management), supply planning, coordination and product delivery across multiple markets, and New Product delivery through existing and new manufacturing partners.
Accountabilities
- Lead Manufacturing Alliance Strategy & Network Management
- Own Hershey's external manufacturing and co-packing network across Europe, MEA and WTR.
- Develop and execute manufacturing alliance and sourcing strategies that support growth, supply continuity, and value creation.
- Develop and maintain long-term sourcing and manufacturing strategies.
- Identify, evaluate and onboard new partners to strengthen Hershey's manufacturing capabilities and support innovation initiatives.
- Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, Procurement and Commercial teams to establish and maintain long-term sourcing strategies that support growth plans.
Manage Strategic Partnerships & Risk Mitigation
- Develop and maintain strategic relationships with manufacturing and co-packing partners throughout the partnership lifecycle.
- Manage contracts, commercial negotiations, renewals, and governance processes.
- Lead resolution of complex partnership, supply, and operational issues while mitigating business and operational risks.
- Support ESG functions in coordinating compliance and audit-related actions with external partners.
Optimize Supply Chain, Logistics & Procurement Integration
- Owner of packaging procurement activities with external co-manufacturing and co-packing suppliers, including source identification, pricing negotiations, supply assurance, and stakeholder management.
- Partner with Procurement to establish and implement ingredient sourcing strategies aligned to growth plans.
- Coordinate supply planning, raw material and packaging availability, and production scheduling with external manufacturing partners.
- Issue resolution with Co mfg/co pack partners.
Drive Continuous Improvement & Capability Development
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance shared manufacturing capabilities and partner performance.
- Support innovation, NPD, and business development opportunities across the alliance network.
- Facilitate partner reviews, KPI tracking, compliance activities, and best-practice sharing to strengthen partnership effectiveness.
Team Development
- Mentors & develops team in order to improve capabilities and drive decision points through insights & analyses.
- Be accountable for coaching and developing direct reports.
- Be responsible and committed for the training and development plan for him/herself and his/her team.
Skills/Knowledge Minimum Education & Requirements
Education: BS/BA in Engineering, Science, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, or equivalent experience.
Experience
Prefer 8+ years related experience in supply chain with exposure to co mfg/copack management.
Mgr Manufacturing Alliance EU employer: The Hershey Company
Hershey is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in London that fosters growth and innovation within the confectionery sector. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that prioritises professional development, with ample opportunities for coaching and mentorship, particularly in the fast-paced Discounter Channel. Joining our team means being part of a forward-thinking company that values strategic thinking and results-driven performance, all while working with iconic brands like Reese’s.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mgr Manufacturing Alliance EU
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like The Hershey Company, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Mgr Manufacturing Alliance EU
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to The Hershey Company specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Hershey Company
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with The Hershey Company, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like The Hershey Company value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
