VP Sales - Plastics/ Packaging

Own the company's global commercial growth strategy, building a scalable sales organisation and routes-to-market capable of growing revenues exponentially while maintaining target gross margins. There has never been a more pivotal time to join the sustainable plastics revolution. The industry is under immense pressure from consumers and manufacturers alike to innovate at an astonishing rate, providing a new, circular economy in packaging and hygiene materials. An exciting global scale-up with a breakthrough, proprietary formulation for plastic biodegradation is ramping up its commercial activities globally and is looking for an experienced commercial leader to take on the role of VP Sales globally. Reporting to the CEO, you will be responsible for the sales and commercial functions both strategically and operationally, leading a team of 5 experienced commercial professionals based globally. The position is a key hire in the company’s plan to accelerate growth and will require a hands-on, entrepreneurial, and creative individual who understands the complexity of the plastics/packaging value chain. The position can be based remotely, with a preference for locations in the UK or Europe, however global locations shall be considered depending on capability. A proven strategic thinker and relationship-builder looking to step into something new and exciting will excel in this position. You will be responsible for supporting the expansion of a ground-breaking technology business through leadership, high-level networking and relationship management. Motivating, driving and coaching your team of salespeople is critical, providing commercial support, inspiration, and assisting with the operational side of their sales – the role requires someone who is experienced in bringing sales all the way through the pipeline to closure, in varying cultures and locations around the world. This role will see you join the business at a crucial time as they solidify their partner and customer base of leading brands and expand into new markets through new and existing partnerships. It's imperative you are able to attain a detailed understanding of the relationship between regulation and commercial outcomes, leveraging strong partnerships to lead growth across multiple territories. A Commercial Leader with a proven track record in delivering exponential growth in plastics/ packaging with an FMCG focus, who is searching for a genuinely exciting mission towards improved sustainability in a critical sector will thrive in this position. You will be a key support to the executive team, and gain exposure to a multitude of stakeholders from political leaders, global brand owner customers at a senior level, investors and local hero brands in markets around the world. The successful candidate must be able to influence at a high level across the entirety of the plastics value chain. If you are a proven commercial, sales and business leader in the plastic packaging sector, with a passion for sustainable solutions in a traditionally conservative industry, and the drive to join a truly fast-paced scale-up organisation, then this could be an amazing opportunity. What we are looking for: Demonstrated commercial success in the plastic raw materials or packaging converter industry – ideally 10+ years' industrial experience.Proven track record in leading and motivating remote teams of high-performing sales professionals.Global experience growing businesses and understanding cultural nuances across markets such as Indian Sub-Continent, South East-Asia, Africa and Middle East.Strong understanding of the end-to-end sales cycle, from prospecting through to closed deals, contracts, invoicing, and supply agreements.An entrepreneurial, proactive mindset, and the ability to remain resilient in a high-growth environment, with the ability to both interrogate the detail and look at the big pictureIdeally, exposure to regulatory processes, and a good understanding of the roles played in the value chain by NGOs, governments, resin producers, converters and brand owners.Excellent creativity and initiative. Willingness to identify problems and propose solutions, take initiative, and implement automation/AI where effective.The ability to travel ~50% of the time. Compensation: Approx. £110,000 - 130,000 base salary (or equivalent) + sales incentive plan + equity. Please apply directly or get in touch with Oliver Davies (oliver.davies@southall-sage.com) for a confidential discussion about the position.