Director Operations Logistics

About the role

Cloetta is expanding its presence in the United States and is assembling a dedicated leadership team to create a scalable, compliant, and commercially strong operating platform. This senior role sits at the center of that effort and is responsible for shaping the operational foundation for the U.S. business from the ground up.

Based on the East Coast in the United States and working remotely with domestic travel, this position reports to the U.S. Country Manager and has a strong functional connection to Global Operations & Supply Chain. It is part of the emerging U.S. management team and is intended for a leader who wants to build systems, processes, and partnerships rather than inherit an already established model.

Cloetta is a leading confectionery company in Northern Europe, known for long-standing craftsmanship, quality, and well-known brands. As the business grows in the U.S., this role will help move the operation from early-stage setup into a repeatable structure that can support growth across customers, channels, and product categories.

Your mission

The purpose of the role is to design and lead a practical, scalable U.S. operations and route-to-market setup that supports the company’s commercial goals now and as the business expands.

Key responsibilities

• Take ownership of the end-to-end U.S. operating model, including import, logistics, warehousing, and delivery to customers.
• Build a route-to-market structure that balances service reliability, cost control, and future growth.
• Identify, structure, and manage key external partners such as 3PLs, brokers, and carriers with scalability in mind.
• Put in place operating procedures, governance mechanisms, and SOPs that support expansion without losing oversight.
• Plan ahead for future requirements such as rising volumes, local co-packing, and additional channels.
• Guide the business from a setup phase into disciplined, repeatable execution.
• Ensure the business meets all relevant U.S. food and regulatory standards, including FDA, FSMA, FSVP, and customs requirements.
• Act as the senior operations contact for audits, inspections, and operational escalations.
• Work closely with global Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and Procurement teams to align U.S. execution with global standards.
• Represent U.S. operational priorities in central decision-making discussions.
• Contribute actively to the U.S. management team by bringing structure, pace, and operational leadership.
• Support the wider U.S. growth agenda beyond operations alone.

Who you are

You are a seasoned operations leader who enjoys creating business processes and building scalable systems in complex environments.

Experience and background

• 8–12+ years of experience in operations, logistics, or supply chain within food, consumer packaged goods, or another regulated consumer goods environment.
• A strong track record of developing or scaling operating models, preferably in new markets or fast-growth settings.
• Practical knowledge of U.S. import, logistics, and compliance frameworks.
• Experience working with outside partners and across global matrix organizations.

Leadership profile

• A strategic mindset paired with a strong focus on delivery.
• Commercial awareness and a clear understanding of how operations support growth and customer success.
• Comfort working through ambiguity and making timely decisions.
• Calm, credible, and confident when working with senior leadership.

Compensation and benefits

The salary range for this position is $140,000 to $160,000 and the role is bonus eligible. Compensation may vary based on location, experience, and education.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus a 401(k) plan with company match.
• A generous paid time off package.
• Performance-based bonus opportunity.
• Flexible working hours with an emphasis on work-life balance.

Work environment

• International yet personal culture where individuals can make a visible impact and have a voice.
• Access to a global network of experienced colleagues for collaboration, learning, and knowledge sharing.
• A growing organization focused on continuous improvement and finding smart ways to win.
• Freedom to carry out responsibilities independently and bring your own ideas to life.

Location and working model

This role is based in the United States on the East Coast and is remote, with domestic travel required.