This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned leader to spearhead the international expansion of Unilever's Wellbeing Collective (WBC) in Europe. If you possess an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for building brands that enhance people's lives, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact.
About the Opportunity:
Unilever is on a mission to become the world's leading wellness organization, and the Wellbeing Collective is at the forefront of this ambition. This division is fueled by a growing portfolio of lifestyle and wellbeing brands, including Equilibra, Olly, Smarty Pants Vitamins, Liquid IV, Welly, Onnit, and Nutrafol. The International Expansion team is tasked with bringing these successful US-based brands to global markets, with a particular focus on Europe. You will be instrumental in developing and executing the strategy for this expansion, with the UK business serving as your initial P&L ownership base.
Key Advantages for Candidates:
- Entrepreneurial Leadership: This role operates with a startup mentality within a large, established organization. You'll have the autonomy to shape strategies, drive innovation, and build a new division from the ground up in Europe.
- Full P&L Ownership & Strategic Impact: You will have end-to-end responsibility for the business in the UK, with a clear path to leading broader European market expansion. This includes developing market entry strategies, managing P&Ls, and driving commercial performance.
- Brand Building & Growth: You'll work with renowned and exciting wellbeing brands, playing a pivotal role in their global growth story. This is an opportunity to develop and launch high-impact marketing programs tailored to diverse European markets.
- People Development & Team Building: This position involves leading and developing a high-performing team. You will have the chance to cultivate a purpose-driven, inclusive, and diverse culture within the WBC division.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: You'll collaborate extensively with global teams, cross-functional partners, and agencies, fostering strong relationships to mobilize resources and achieve ambitious goals.
- Career Progression within a Global Leader: Unilever offers a competitive compensation package, including salary, bonus, pension, and benefits. You'll benefit from a flexible and hybrid working environment, with a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing and development opportunities.
Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Ambiguity & Pace: The WBC operates like a startup within Unilever, meaning you'll need to be comfortable with ambiguity and thrive in fast-moving environments. Bringing structure and clear vision will be crucial.
- Hands-On Approach: This is a "doer" role that requires a strong bias for action. You'll be expected to roll up your sleeves, lead by example, and drive results in a dynamic landscape.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: While historical data may be limited in new markets, a strong data-driven mindset is essential for guiding decisions, identifying opportunities, and refining strategies.
- Geographical Strategy: The role requires developing and executing strategies for multiple European markets, demanding a strong understanding of local and regional nuances, consumers, and customers.
- Location: Please note the London location details. The role is based at 100 Victoria Embankment (100VE) in London, with a proposed move to a new campus in Kingston-upon-Thames in early 2025. This is subject to consultation, and candidates will be informed of their final work location.
In essence, this General Manager role is for a visionary leader who is passionate about the wellbeing space, eager to build and scale brands internationally, and possesses the drive and adaptability to succeed in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment within a global powerhouse.