Ben & Jerry's: Head of Retail, Europe - A Purpose-Driven Leadership Opportunity
Are you a seasoned retail leader with a passion for purpose and a drive for excellence? This role at Ben & Jerry's offers a unique opportunity to blend your business acumen with a deeply ingrained social mission. Ben & Jerry's isn't just about crafting delicious ice cream; it's about being a force for good in the world, as evidenced by its certified B Corp status and commitment to social, racial, and environmental justice. If you aspire to lead within a company that prioritizes "Linked Prosperity" through values-led sourcing and impactful giving, this position could be your next fulfilling career move.
As the Head of Retail for Europe, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the European retail strategy. This is a high-impact leadership position that demands a strategic thinker, a skilled operator, and a master relationship builder. You'll be instrumental in bringing the iconic Ben & Jerry's brand experience to life for fans across Europe, working collaboratively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:
- Impactful Leadership: Directly influence the growth and success of a globally recognized brand with a strong ethical compass.
- Purpose-Driven Culture: Immerse yourself in an organization that actively champions social justice and environmental sustainability, aligning your professional career with your personal values.
- Global Reach & Collaboration: Engage with a wide spectrum of international partners, including regional operations teams, distributors, franchisees, and internal cross-functional teams, fostering a rich and dynamic work environment.
- Strategic Autonomy: Be empowered to develop and implement European retail strategies, working in close partnership with global leadership to drive sustainable, profitable growth.
- Brand Advocacy: Contribute to maintaining and enhancing the strong brand equity of Ben & Jerry's through impeccable operational and executional compliance.
- Financial Stewardship: Take ownership of the European Retail P&L, demonstrating strong financial acumen and a commitment to profitable expansion.
Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Extensive Experience Required: This role necessitates a minimum of 10 years in retail management or a closely related field, with a deep understanding of franchise operations, financial management, and marketing strategies.
- Strategic & Analytical Prowess: You'll need to demonstrate a strong capacity for strategic planning, financial analysis, and data-driven problem-solving to navigate the complexities of the European market.
- Exceptional Communication & Relationship Management: The ability to foster strong partnerships and communicate effectively across all levels of an organization and with external stakeholders is paramount.
- Global Mindset & Adaptability: Experience in a global setting is essential, along with the adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities with cultural intelligence.
- Commitment to Core Values: Success in this role hinges on your genuine commitment to embodying and integrating Ben & Jerry's core values into every aspect of your work.
- Hybrid & Travel Expectations: Be prepared for a hybrid work environment (3 days in office) and approximately 30% travel within Europe.
For leaders who are driven by both commercial success and a desire to make a positive societal impact, this Head of Retail, Europe position at Ben & Jerry's presents an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of a beloved brand and contribute to a more just and sustainable world.