Global Innovation Manager

Note: Deadline for applying is 23.59 the day before the Job Posting End Date.

UNILEVER IS LOOKING FOR AN ICE CREAM –Global Innovation Manager

Location: The Netherlands (Amsterdam) #TMICC

Full-time: Yes

Local conditions apply  

For the recruitment of this position, we would like to emphasize that local conditions apply to the position and for this vacancy in principle we will consider candidates based in the set locations. If you are based outside of these locations and you are interested to apply, please feel free to do so but at this stage we will not take your application forward. We will only consider your application if a decision is made to also recruit outside of the set locations.

The Ice Cream division at Unilever is preparing to stand on its own, aiming to become an independent, EUR 8.3 billion publicly listed company by the end of 2025. We’re on a mission to create the ultimate snacking company.​ A place where growth, innovation, founder and ownership mentality, and performance are cultivated and rewarded. And where we craft extraordinary ice cream experiences - transforming ordinary moments into lasting memories.​ Because we know, life tastes better with ice cream.​

Background

The Magnum Ice Cream Company is a key player in the FMCG industry, generating EUR 7.9 billion in revenue, backed by over a century of heritage and expertise. We are home to some of the most iconic global brands, including Magnum, Ben & Jerry’s, and Breyers, delighting millions of consumers worldwide. Focused on the future of refreshment and snacking, TMICC continues to innovate by expanding into new consumer segments, occasions, and places. We are committed to evolving ourselves and shaping the future of refreshment and snacking by delivering premium, indulgent experiences wherever there is a desire for exceptional taste.

Main Purpose

We are seeking an enthusiastic and talented individual to join our Game Changing Innovation and Strategic Partnership team, leading new ventures, innovations and projects within this exciting platform. This role presents a rewarding challenge for someone with exceptional brand-building skills and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. You will be a key driver of game-changing innovations, collaborating with a diverse team to achieve shared success. Your ability to engage closely with all our regions will be crucial as you craft and elevate new brands, forge partnerships, and deliver outstanding products and communications. This role offers a high level of empowerment, trust, and responsibility as you delve into the future innovations of TMICC.

Global Innovation Manager:

What we are really looking for:

We're seeking a positive, proactive individual who is passionate about innovation and building brands! The ideal candidate is driven to go the extra mile to create exceptional consumer experiences. Someone ready to dive deep, think critically, and champion new ideas. We're looking for a candidate with significant experience in innovation and portfolio building, who embraces challenges, has a passion for building premium brands, and a keen eye for emerging trends. The ideal candidate thrives in an international team environment and is always open to listening and learning. Above all, we want someone who's enthusiastic, collaborative, and ready to fearlessly drive growth for TMICC and our future Innovations platform. Ideally, someone with local, regional, or global brand management experience. As a Global Brand Manager, you will be the strategic leader responsible for advancing our innovation portfolio, continuously striving to close the superiority gap versus the competition through innovative product and brand development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Drive the strategy for the Adult Refreshment platform, collaborating with cross-functional global teams and regional markets to analyze portfolios, identify demand opportunities, and implement global innovations.

• Innovation and Expansion: Spearhead the development of our innovation plan and lead the geographic expansion of current formats, enhancing the portfolio beyond traditional offerings.

• Communication Excellence: Develop and execute impactful communication assets using social-first, digital, and above-the-line channels to ensure consistent, superior messaging.

• Project and Budget Management: Lead budget planning and oversight for projects, ensuring effective execution and resource allocation.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead cross-functional teams, including R&D, Packaging, Supply Chain, CMI, and CTI, to deliver innovative projects.

• Analytical and Creative Insights: Utilize strong analytical skills and business acumen to craft compelling category, NRM, trade, and consumer stories, particularly for key regions.

• Entrepreneurial Leadership: Demonstrate a proven track record in developing outstanding communication campaigns with an entrepreneurial, “Can Do” attitude.

• Team Development: Foster a committed and high-performing team, promoting growth, excellence, and high emotional intelligence in a culturally diverse environment.

• Trend Integration: Stay connected to external trends in fashion and beauty, creatively incorporating relevant insights into the Magnum brand.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 7+ years of progressive FMCG marketing experience, with a focus on brand and mix development, consumer insights, and digital marketing.

• Proven experience with luxury/premium brands and within the Ice Cream category is advantageous.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to balance logical and emotional reasoning.

• Demonstrated resilience, self-motivation, and proactive problem-solving abilities.

WHAT IS IN IT FOR YOU?

Unilever is the place where you can be yourself and bring your purpose to life with the work that you do – creating a better business and a better world. We offer an exciting & dynamic work environment where you can make things happen. Furthermore, we offer some great reward and benefits!   

• Attractive total remuneration package; excellent company pension, bonus and share scheme.  

• Flexible cross-disciplinary career opportunities and a wealth of training opportunities & wellbeing resources whenever and wherever.   

• Plenty of company-paid holidays to further ensure your work-life balance is maintained.   

• We encourage an inclusive culture, which comes to life with interchangeable public holidays, paid paternity leave of 6 weeks and our transgender policy.   

• Under the Hybrid Working principles, you will be expected to spend a minimum of 40% in the office or at customers, suppliers or partners to connect and collaborate.  For the time you work from home, we will ensure you are well equipped. When you are at the office, you can enjoy our tasty canteen with prepped food and own products. 

• Informal culture and being the first one trying our new products.    

• My Fitness Plan (reduction on your Fitness Subscription).  

• Home work allowance 

• Company laptop and mobile phone 

• Green Mobility Policy 

EXCITED?

Join Unilever and our team! To apply, you must do so online. Please do not forget to upload your CV and a motivation letter.  Your application will be reviewed against our requirements, and we will be in touch shortly after the closing date to provide you with an update on the status of your application.  

Looking forward to meeting you!    

Please note this is a Direct Search led by Unilever. Applications from agencies will not be accepted, nor will fees be paid for unsolicited CVs.   

Equal Opportunity Employer: Unilever is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, disability, age, parenthood, pregnancy or any other basis protected by applicable law, and will not be discriminated against.

By highlighting the gender diversity at the workplace, Unilever encourages women equally men to apply. If you look for a job after a long career break or after any type of leave, do not hesitate to apply.

NOTE: Please save a copy of this vacancy for personal use as it will disappear from the website after closing of the role.