Chief Executive Officer

QLM Search are supporting the Board of a highly respected, international flavours and ingredients business on the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a purpose-led, science-driven organisation with a long heritage, deep technical expertise and a strong reputation across global beverage, flavour house and food customers.

The business operates internationally, with significant manufacturing, innovation and commercial capability across Europe and North America, and is at an important point in its evolution.

Substantial investment has been made in people, facilities and innovation. The next CEO will play a defining role in converting this platform into sustained commercial performance and long-term value creation.

We are seeking a proven CEO with deep experience in flavours, ingredients or closely related food and beverage sectors. Candidates will have led complex, manufacturing-led organisations, with full P&L accountability, and will be comfortable operating in a hands-on, international environment.

• leadership within flavours, ingredients or flavour-adjacent food and beverage businesses

• strong understanding of innovation-led, customer-partnered models common in flavour houses and ingredient suppliers

• credibility with major global customers and sophisticated stakeholders

• the ability to balance commercial discipline, operational excellence and people-centred leadership

This role will suit a leader who values culture and heritage as much as performance; someone who is visible, grounded and able to bring people with them through the next phase of growth.

The position can be based in Europe or North America and will involve regular international travel.

This search is being conducted on a confidential basis. Initial conversations will be discreet and exploratory. If you are a CEO, or a senior leader ready to step into a CEO role, with deep roots in flavours or ingredients, we would welcome a private discussion.