Commercial Manager - Food Ingredients - North America - European company
CNS Worldwide is recruiting a Commercial Manager – North America on behalf of a European-based company specialized in innovative food ingredients. The company is recognized for its strong R&D capabilities, technical expertise, and long-term partnerships within the global food industry.This role is ideal for a commercially driven professional who combines strategic thinking with hands-on execution and thrives at the intersection of market strategy, pricing, and cross-functional collaboration.Role OverviewThe Commercial Manager – North America is an individual contributor responsible for driving commercial strategy, market development, pricing management, and portfolio performance across assigned ingredient categories in the USA and Canada.This position plays a critical role in connecting North American market opportunities with European R&D and supply chain capabilities, ensuring successful execution of a differentiated and value-driven commercial strategy.Key ResponsibilitiesCommercial Strategy & Market DevelopmentDefine and execute the North American commercial strategy for assigned product categories.Identify growth opportunities, market trends, and competitive dynamics.Develop action plans to expand market share and strengthen customer relationships.Monitor and respond to competitive activity and pricing developments.Portfolio & Pricing ManagementManage and optimize the regional product portfolio based on customer needs and profitability objectives.Develop and implement pricing strategies aligned with value-based selling and margin targets.Provide pricing guidance for new product launches and strategic customer projects.Identify portfolio gaps and new innovation opportunities.Sales & Project Pipeline SupportSupport sales teams and distributors with strategic account development.Monitor and prioritize the regional project pipeline from concept to commercialization.Collaborate with key customers to translate technical solutions into commercial success.Cross-Functional CollaborationServe as the primary commercial interface between North America and European R&D and supply chain teams.Align on development priorities, timelines, and feasibility.Support successful product launches and commercialization initiatives.Experience & EducationBachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Business, Marketing, or a related field.Minimum 2 years of experience in commercial management, product management, or technical-commercial roles within the food ingredients industry.Strong experience with emulsifiers, hydrocolloids, vitamins, and applications in baking, dairy, meat, and plant-based products is highly valued.Solid understanding of the North American food market and customer expectations.Ability to translate technical knowledge into commercially compelling solutions.Work Environment & TravelPrimarily on-site role to foster collaboration and team engagement.Hybrid flexibility: 1–2 days per week remote work depending on business needs.20–30% travel within the USA and Canada to meet clients, attend trade shows, and participate in industry events.