Business Unit Head

Company Overview

Not specified.

Job Summary

The Business Unit Head will be responsible for leading the strategic, operational, and financial performance of the concentrated soft drinks division. This position oversees all business functions, including production, sales, marketing, supply chain, quality assurance, and compliance. The Business Unit Head will focus on driving growth, profitability, innovation, and operational excellence, ensuring alignment with the organization’s overall objectives.

Responsibilities

• Strategic & Business Leadership

  • Develop and execute the division’s strategy in alignment with the company’s long-term goals.
  • Identify new growth opportunities across both domestic and international markets.
  • Drive product innovation and diversify the portfolio to meet evolving consumer and regulatory needs.
  • Manage full Profit and Loss (P&L) responsibility to ensure sustainable profitability and business expansion.

• Operations & Manufacturing

  • Oversee production planning, efficiency, and capacity utilization.
  • Maintain consistent product quality and ensure compliance with global food safety standards (FSSAI, FDA, HACCP, ISO, GMP).
  • Implement lean manufacturing practices and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Optimize procurement and management of raw materials for quality and cost efficiency.

• Sales & Marketing

  • Define and execute sales strategies across both B2B (business to business) and B2C (business to consumer) channels.
  • Build and nurture relationships with distributors, bottlers, and beverage partners to enhance market reach.
  • Develop effective pricing, branding, and promotional strategies for key markets.
  • Monitor competition and market trends to maintain leadership and relevance.

• Supply Chain & Distribution

  • Ensure a smooth and timely procurement, production, and distribution of soft drink concentrates.
  • Strengthen logistics and supply chain operations to minimize lead times and costs.
  • Explore and develop export opportunities, managing both national and international distribution networks.

• Finance & Compliance

  • Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance of the division.
  • Ensure compliance with food safety laws, labeling, and environmental standards.
  • Drive cost optimization initiatives without compromising quality or efficiency.

• People Leadership

  • Lead and mentor cross-functional teams across operations, sales, research and development (R&D), and support functions.
  • Foster a culture of ownership, accountability, and innovation among team members.
  • Implement training and development initiatives to enhance team capabilities and retention.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Business Administration, Food Technology, or a related field.
• 18–25 years of experience in Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), beverages, or food manufacturing, including 10+ years in leadership roles.
• Proven record of P&L management and business scaling experience.
• In-depth knowledge of beverage formulations, concentrates, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong expertise in operations, sales, and supply chain leadership.
• Previous work experience in Africa is preferred.

Preferred Skills

• Strategic vision and commercial acumen.
• Strong leadership and people management capabilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder handling skills.
• Financial discipline with an analytical mindset.
• Innovative and market-driven approach.

Experience

• Minimum 18 years of experience in relevant fields, specifically in FMCG or food manufacturing, with a focus on leadership roles.

Environment

Not specified.

Salary

Not specified.

Growth Opportunities

Not specified.

Benefits

Not specified.