Global Head of Product Development - Convenience (Interim)

Come and join the leading experts. Westfalia Fruit is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value‑added products to global markets. Through our vertically‑integrated supply chain, we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market high quality avocadoes & fresh produce 365 days a year across the globe. With the largest avocado‑growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading avocado experts and considered the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers served from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.

We’re looking for a Global Head of Product Development – Convenience to join our Senior Leadership team in Westfalia International on an interim basis (3‑6 months). Westfalia Fruit is seeking a Global Head of Product Development – Convenience to lead and transform the global convenience innovation strategy and product development agenda. This role will provide end‑to‑end ownership of Westfalia’s Convenience global portfolio and NPD portfolio, ensuring innovation is aligned with commercial priorities, margin growth and long‑term strategic objectives.

The Global Head of Product Development will introduce a unified global innovation framework, standardise development processes and strengthen collaboration between Commercial, Supply Chain, Operations and regional Product Development teams. This role will lead and develop regional Product Development specialists, ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, and accelerate speed‑to‑market so that the innovation pipeline consistently converts into commercial success.

Responsibilities

• Define and deliver a global convenience product development strategy aligned to commercial growth.
• Build a consistent, scalable innovation approach across regions to reduce duplication and improve delivery.
• Lead the long‑term innovation roadmap, balancing new product innovation with continuous improvement.
• Own the end‑to‑end NPD lifecycle from concept through to launch and commercialisation.
• Implement and manage stage‑gate processes to ensure quality, accountability and timely delivery.
• Prioritise projects based on commercial value, customer demand and operational feasibility.
• Partner cross‑functionally with Commercial, Supply Chain, Operations and production sites to deliver scalable products.
• Engage with customers and market stakeholders to translate insights into viable product opportunities.
• Lead and develop regional product development teams, building capability and technical expertise.
• Oversee project delivery, timelines and portfolio performance while identifying gaps and growth opportunities.

Essential Experience, Qualifications & Skills

• Degree (or equivalent qualification) in Food Technology, Food Science or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience leading R&D and product development functions within the food industry.
• Demonstrated experience delivering new product development within fresh, chilled or frozen food categories.
• Strong expertise implementing stage‑gate innovation processes and NPD governance frameworks.
• Proven ability to lead complex cross‑functional innovation programmes across international markets.
• Strong project and portfolio management capability with experience overseeing multiple product development initiatives simultaneously.
• Experience working closely with commercial teams, customers and production environments to bring products to market.
• Leadership experience managing international R&D teams and external development partners.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence senior leadership and customer partners.

Desirable Experience, Qualifications & Skills

• Experience working with fresh produce or HPP (high pressure pasteurising) processes.
• Experience in frozen fruit, IQF technologies or dried fruit product development.
• Exposure to brand management, portfolio strategy or marketing collaboration.
• Experience working with retail or foodservice customers in international markets.
• Experience leading innovation strategy within global FMCG or food manufacturing organisations.
• Additional languages including Spanish, French or German would be beneficial.

Benefits

• Attractive salary tailored to your education and experience.
• Full‑time employment with flexible hours.
• Comprehensive benefit package, including vacation days, hospital and group insurance, a mobile phone, meal vouchers and eco vouchers.
• Opportunities for growth, independence and impact in a versatile role.
• Company-provided avocado products and treats.