Job Title

Commercial Director Islands ChocolateIs this the role you are looking for If so read on for more details, and make sure to apply today.Islands Chocolate is a pioneering family - owned business leading Britain's new wave chocolate movement since 2018. We're one of the UK's only truly farm-to-bar producers, growing our own cocoa in the Caribbean and directly sourcing across Central America, controlling every stage from bean to finished product.Our award - winning chocolates (4 Great Taste Awards 2022, 3 Academy of Chocolate Awards) are trusted by Michelin-starred restaurants, premium bakeries, luxury hotels, and specialist retailers across the UK.What makes us unique is our complete vertical integration - from Caribbean cocoa farms through manufacturing to delivery - ensuring exceptional quality and full traceability whilst supporting sustainable, ethical practices throughout our supply chain.Role OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Commercial Director to drive commercial excellence across our three integrated business units: cocoa farming, manufacturing, and chocolate brand operations. This is a pivotal leadership role working directly with the CEO to implement commercial strategy and deliver exceptional financial performance.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipPartner with the CEO to develop and implement commercial strategy across all business unitsDrive strategic commercial planning and execution to maximize revenue and profitabilityLead cross-business unit commercial coordination to optimize our vertically integrated operationsFinancial AccountabilityTake full P&L ownership and accountability for commercial performance across the groupDrive revenue optimisation and margin management initiativesDeliver consistent financial results and commercial KPI achievementSales Leadership & OperationsWork closely with the Global Sales Director to drive growth and commercial excellenceLead, manage, and develop high-performing sales teams across all business unitsEstablish performance accountability frameworks and drive resultsStandardise and continuously improve sales processes and methodologiesConduct complex contract negotiations and ensure successful deal closureMarket Intelligence & PositioningConduct comprehensive market analysis and competitive positioningWork closely with brand, marketing, and cocoa teams to identify market trends and opportunitiesIdentify and capitalise on commercial opportunities across all business unitsDrive strategic commercial initiatives that leverage our integrated value chainSkills & Experience Required:Proven track record in senior commercial leadership roles within FMCG, retail, or food and beverage sectorsStrong strategic planning and execution capabilities, including full commercial P&L ownershipDeep experience across multi-channel growth: retail, foodservice, D2C, and international distributionSkilled in building and managing high-performing cross-functional teamsExpertise in partnership development, contract negotiation, and licensing modelsHands-on experience in scaling e-commerce platforms and digital customer engagementFamiliarity with investment processes and commercial due diligenceStrong communicator with experience in board-level stakeholder engagementPassion for ethical sourcing, sustainability, and purpose-led brand growthAdept at operating in entrepreneurial, high-growth environmentsExcellent Excel and forecasting skills