Cosa offriamoKEY RESPONSIBILITIES1. Business Unit start-up and developmentDefine the operating model of the Carob Powder BU: positioning, product/service portfolio, sales channels, cost structure and marginsSet up the BU’s commercial, technical and administrative processes from scratch, in coordination with ManagementPropose and negotiate agreements with raw material suppliers and industrial partnersDefine the go-to-market plan and the development priorities for the first 12–24 monthsActively participate in the selection of any additional resources to be integrated into the BU during the scale-up phaseLaunch and manage customer acquisition across the chocolate compounders segment (manufacturers of cocoa substitutes, coatings, compounds and fillings) and the bakery industry (biscuit manufacturers, industrial pastry producers, snacks and confectionery)Leverage and develop an established customer portfolio within the industryDefine and negotiate supply contracts, framework agreements and commercial termsContinuously monitor the European cocoa powder market, analyse competitors and identify new business opportunitiesRepresent the company at national and international trade fairs and industry events (e.G. Sigep, Fi Europe)3. Technical oversight of production plantsSupport bakery and compound customers in validating product technical specifications (technical data sheets, CoAs, organoleptic and chemical-physical parameters of the powder)Collaborate with R&D and production teams to develop customised solutionsManage post-sales technical issues in coordination with the technical support serviceProvide technical training to customers on the optimal use of products and equipmentProvide technical training to customers on the optimal use of different types of cocoa powder,



including selecting the appropriate pH for bakery vs. compound applications and understanding the impact of alkalisation processes on colour and flavourRead and interpret plant diagrams, technical specifications and process sheets4. Management and reportingDefine the BU’s annual budget and monitor commercial and profitability KPIsProvide structured reporting to Management on pipeline, forecasts, sales performance and progress of the start-up projectManage pricing according to raw material trends, including cocoa index, cocoa butter and sugarExperienceAt least 7–10 years of experience in technical-commercial roles selling cocoa powder as an industrial ingredient to bakery and/or chocolate compound customers, with the ability to support customers in adopting cocoa powder or replacing existing solutions, at least partiallyBackground in companies that actively sell cocoa powder to industrial customersActive and demonstrable customer portfolio within the chocolate compounders and/or bakery industry segments: a highly valued and priority factor during the selection processDirect and documented experience in the launch, commissioning or start-up of cocoa powder production plants or, more broadly, cocoa processing facilities: essential requirementPrevious experience in developing new markets or business lines:



highly preferredTechnical skillsIn-depth knowledge of cocoa powder processingFamiliarity with chocolate production equipment, including tempering machines, cooling tunnels, depositing lines and temperature-controlled storage systemsAbility to interpret product technical specifications and safety data sheetsKnowledge of applicable food regulationsStrong results orientation and commercial growth mindsetExcellent relationship-building and negotiation skillsOperational autonomy and an entrepreneurial approach to BU managementStrong technical problem-solving skills in industrial production environmentsAbility to work towards objectives while independently managing priorities and scheduleEducationDegree in Food Science and Technology, Food Engineering, Industrial Chemistry or related fieldsAlternatively, a technical or vocational diploma combined with proven high-level industry experienceLanguagesEnglish: minimum B2 level, required for international customers and suppliersAdditional languages such as German or French are considered an advantageWHAT WE OFFERFounding role: full responsibility for launching the Carrubina plant and building the BU, with the support of ManagementCompetitive compensation package: gross annual salary based on experienceCompany car for both business and personal useWork equipment, including laptop and smartphoneFast-growing environment with the opportunity to build and lead the BU teamContinuous technical training and participation in industry eventsThe position involves significant field-based activity, including customer visits, construction sites and production facilities. xysqume The reference office/location will be agreed upon based on the selected candidate’s profile.#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Business Unit Manager (Ragusa)
🏢 LBG Sicilia Ingredients
📍 Ragusa