Commercial Food Manager

Role Introduction: Established in 1992, Applegreen is a leading convenience roadside retailer in the Republic of Ireland, the UK and the US in both large-scale Motorway Service Areas and Travel Plazas, as well as smaller petrol stations. The business has grown to over €3BN in annual revenue, operating 600 Motorway Service Plazas and forecourt sites internationally and employing over 16,000 people. Applegreen is in a rapid growth phase and to support this ambitious growth, we are seeking to onboard a Commercial Food Manager who will be at the forefront of developing strategies that drive sales, enhance product offerings, and maintain strong relationships with both brand partners and customers.This role will form part of the Food team and reports to the Director of Operations and Food. It is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to excel. The successful candidate will be a confident people person who can fit into Applegreen seamlessly and adopt a hands-on approach to their role. Key Responsibilities: As Applegreen expands, the responsibilities will evolve and change over time. The core responsibilities will centre around the following areas: Commercial Strategy Development and Relationship Management: Developing and leading the branded and own brand food strategy in collaboration with various teams. A significant part of this role involves managing the relationships with franchise food brand partners and suppliers to secure optimal business terms.This will include building the commercialization infrastructure needed, product road map and market adoption of the Applegreen products and services. The role is expected to combine technical knowledge, product knowledge and strategy implementation of the various Food brands, both branded and own brand, with effective marketing sales and customer service initiatives to increase sales and profitability. This includes ensuring that the food offerings are of high quality, innovative, and align with the overall strategic goals of the company. Identifying under-performing sites with guidance from Operations and offer appropriate support to maximise sales and overall operational profitability Develop framework to assess, engage and introduce new brand partners Use data insights to support operations to deliver a better customer experience on site for the customer improving product quality, trade levels and availability. Product Development and NPD Leadership: This responsibility focuses on leading the New Product Development (NPD) process for the companys own brand and contributing to NPD for franchise brands. It involves working with suppliers to introduce new products while ensuring alignment with market trends. Collaborating with marketing and operations teams to enhance product offerings and enhance customer experience is critical. Sales Performance and Financial Optimization: The manager must drive food sales and optimize margins across various food offers. This entails reporting on sales performance, identifying gaps and opportunities for growth, and using market analysis and data insights to enhance the overall customer experience. Additionally, they play a role in ensuring that product offerings are relevant and timely based on customer needs and market dynamics. Sales & Financial Optimization: The commercial food manager will assist the operation teams to identify sales opportunities and optimize margins across various food offers, working closely with the procurement teams. This entails reporting on sales performance, identifying gaps and opportunities for growth, and using market analysis and data insights to enhance the overall customer experience. Additionally, they play a role in ensuring that product offerings are relevant and timely based on customer needs and market dynamics. Responsible for drafting, implementing and evaluating cross-functional decisions that will enable the organization to achieve its long-term objectives Represent Applegreen at trade fairs, conferences, and other public activities to build awareness and understanding of opportunities to offer a point of difference within our food business Full participation in strategic improvement programs and projects as required. Managing branded food contract contracts, ensuring full compliance is achieved. The Candidate should have the following: Qualifications, experience & skills 3-5 years experience in a similar role Higher level qualification advantageous. A passion for food and innovation, along with a customer centric focus Previous experience working with a food company or similar hospitality industry Excellent verbal, written, communication and presentation skills. High proficiency in all Microsoft Office software also essential (Excel, PPT) Experience in a high-volume retail environment preferred but not essential. Ability to manage multiple relationships, duties and priorities. Clean, full drivers licence SAP experience preferred Additional key skills & attributes: Leadership Skills: Ability to manage and motivate a team effectively. Strong communication skills to train and guide staff. Operational Skills: Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities. Proficiency in budgeting, forecasting, and financial management. Customer Service Orientation: Strong focus on customer satisfaction and quality service. Ability to develop and implement strategies to enhance the customer experience. Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse sales data, customer preferences, and market trends. Proficiency in using software for inventory management and sales forecasting. Problem-Solving Skills: Capacity to identify issues and implement effective solutions quickly. Knowledge of Food Safety Standards: In-depth understanding of health and safety regulations pertaining to food handling and storage. Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adjust to changing priorities or challenges. A dynamic individual who adapts well to change and can thrive in a rapidly growing organisation that continues to evolve. Proven track record of delivering to tight deadlines. Willing to travel ad hoc if required Illustrative Application & Screening Process (subject to change): Application Process: Please submit an up to date tailored CV (max 2 pages) and cover letter Interview & Selection Process: Two interview rounds will be required for this role