Head of Regional Independent & Emerging Markets

Want to help us bring happiness to the world? Want to join an ambitious and fast growing global biscuits and confectionery business investing heavily in iconic global brands, infrastructure and people? Then this is the place for you.

As proud bakers and chocolatiers and custodians of iconic global brands, we don’t compromise on the quality of ingredients in our products or on the people we hire. We are looking for entrepreneurial spirits who share our passion for bringing happiness to our consumers and who embody our Winning Traits.

To succeed at pladis you need to be purpose-led, resilient and positive to succeed here because we expect pace and agility, we insist on collaboration and demand accountability. If that is your thing, then pladis offers global ambition, a clear Vision and roadmap for success, challenge, and unrivalled opportunities to learn and make an impact

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PURPOSE:

The Head of Regional Independent & Emerging Markets will lead the commercial strategy and execution across a diverse portfolio of high-potential channels, including independent retailers, regional distributors, emerging market segments, our luxury market business, Travel Retail, and Military teams. This role is critical to unlocking growth in underdeveloped and entrepreneurial spaces, driving distribution, visibility, and brand penetration for pladis across North America. 
You’ll be responsible for building scalable go-to-market strategies, cultivating strong customer relationships, and delivering profitable growth. This is a dynamic, hands-on role that blends strategic leadership with operational excellence—ideal for a commercial leader who thrives in fast-moving, fragmented environments.
 

KEY ACCOUNTABILITEIS AND DELIVERABLES:

Channel Strategy & Expansion

• Develop and execute tailored strategies for independent and emerging market channels.

• Identify white space opportunities and lead market entry initiatives.

Customer Development

• Build and manage relationships with regional distributors, independent retailers, and niche market operators.

• Lead joint business planning and customer-specific activation.

Commercial Planning

• Own the annual operating plan, forecasting, and promotional calendar for the channel.

• Ensure alignment with broader commercial and brand objectives.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate with Marketing, Category, Supply Chain, and Finance to deliver integrated commercial plans.

• Influence innovation and activation strategies tailored to emerging market needs.

Execution Excellence

• Drive in-market execution, merchandising, and compliance across fragmented retail environments.

• Monitor performance and implement corrective actions to meet revenue and margin targets.

Team Development

• Lead and mentor a team focused on regional and independent channel success.

• Foster a culture of agility, accountability, and customer-centricity.

• Influence innovation pipeline and activation plans tailored to small-format needs.

Team Leadership

• Lead and develop a high-performing sales team focused on Emerging success.

• Foster a culture of accountability, agility, and customer obsession.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

Essential Criteria

• 10+ years of commercial experience in CPG, with a strong track record in independent and emerging market channels.

• Proven success in customer management, strategic planning, and team leadership.

• Deep understanding of regional retail dynamics and distributor networks.

• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to navigate ambiguity and drive results.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in business or related field 

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES REQUIRED:

• Commercially Driven: Demonstrates a strong business acumen 

• Strategic Agility: Navigates complex retail landscapes with foresight and adaptability

• Relationship Builder: Cultivates tru