NAOS International has deep expertise in executive recruitment for the Food Industry sector.
Understanding the specific dynamics of agricultural sectors, processing industries, and brands is essential. Our dedicated team has in-depth knowledge of quality and food safety requirements, regulatory constraints, and the operational challenges of production sites. Thanks to a market mapping approach and a network spanning Paris, Lille, Lyon, Aix-en-Provence, Singapore, and Dubai, we identify leaders capable of operating in multi-site and multi-country environments.
Each assignment is tailored to align with your strategy: international growth, industrial excellence, product innovation, or sustainable transition. We co-develop the target profile, conduct leadership/objective assessments, and ensure a smooth onboarding process for successful integration.
Industry insights
The Food Industry sector is undergoing a profound transformation, at the crossroads of ecological transition, industrial digitalization, and changing consumer habits. In France and internationally, large groups and mid-sized companies are reinventing their models to reconcile performance, regulatory compliance, and sustainability.
Sustainable transition and new regulations
In response to the climate emergency and consumer pressure, industry players are accelerating their net zero strategies. The European Union, through the Farm to Fork strategy and the EUDR regulation, is setting unprecedented standards in sustainability and traceability. Companies are investing in eco-design solutions, by-product valorization, and the development of responsible supply chains. ESG, CSR, and sustainable procurement roles are becoming strategic pillars in the governance of agri-food groups.
Digitalization and Industry 4.0
The Food Industry is entering the era of the connected factory. The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and MES systems is transforming production lines, enhancing quality, traceability, and predictive maintenance. These innovations drive gains in productivity, food safety, and operational agility, while supporting competitiveness in the face of rising energy and raw material costs.
Sovereignty and supply chain resilience
The health crisis, agricultural price volatility, and geopolitical tensions have exposed the vulnerability of global food supply chains. The sector is reorganizing around reshoring strategies, supplier diversification, and strengthened food sovereignty. Mastery of cold chain management, S&OP planning, and risk anticipation are becoming key levers for operational continuity.
New consumer expectations and go-to-market transformation
The rise of “clean label,” healthy eating, and transparency is reshaping product portfolios. Marketing and R&D departments are rethinking their innovation and time-to-market strategies, while the growth of omnichannel, e-commerce, and local brands is redefining distribution channels. Companies are seeking leaders who can manage this complexity: strategic vision, understanding of consumer trends, and a strong grasp of profitability.
Future talents and leadership
In this context, leadership needs are evolving. Key roles, Plant Directors, Operations Directors, R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, Marketing, or Sustainable Transformation, require both industrial expertise and strategic agility. These leaders must be able to align economic, environmental, and social priorities, while guiding their teams toward a more resilient model.