1. Challenge:
Danone, a global leader in the food and beverage industry, was embarking on an ambitious evolution of its Quality and Food Safety function. The company sought to elevate its supplier quality management approach by implementing a more integrated and standardized global strategy. As part of Danone’s renewed growth initiatives, the organization partnered with LS International to identify a Senior Director of Supplier Quality Management (SQM) who could spearhead this strategic enhancement.
This pivotal role required an exceptional leader who could strengthen early engagement with Procurement, elevate quality standards across all material categories, successfully implement a newly designed organizational structure, and optimize supplier partnerships. The position demanded both strategic vision and hands-on operational expertise to guide the function’s evolution while supporting Danone’s forward-looking growth objectives.
2. Profile Needed:
- Strategic Leadership: Ability to develop and execute global supplier quality strategies aligned with business objectives while driving transformational change
- Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of quality management systems, food safety standards, and supplier quality programs
- Cross-Functional Influence: Excellence in managing relationships with senior stakeholders across regions without direct authority
- Global Team Leadership: Capability to lead and develop a diverse team of approximately 50 people across multiple regions
Key requirements for the role included:
– End-to-end quality thinking with change management skills
– Direct experience in supplier auditing or manufacturing plants
– Strong quality assessment capabilities
– Ability to balance Danone’s traditional culture with direct communication needs
– Enterprise mindset and strategic thinking
3. The Search Process:
LS International conducted a thorough search targeting senior quality management leaders from top consumer goods companies such as P&G, Unilever, L’Oréal, Kellogg’s, and similar organizations. The search focused on finding candidates who could combine technical expertise with strategic vision, influence stakeholders across different regions, and advance a global function while aligning with Danone’s culture.
The search process involved multiple interview stages, with key stakeholders including the Senior Vice President of Quality & Food Safety and the Chief Procurement Officer assessing candidates. The final stage included a chemistry test with the CPO to ensure alignment with Danone’s leadership approach.
Through this rigorous process, LS International identified an exceptional candidate who demonstrated comprehensive understanding of global transformation processes in supplier quality management.
4. The Outcome:
- Their experience navigating organizational transformation following the Kenvue spin-off
- Strong motivation to contribute to Danone’s transformational journey
- Capability to implement a strategic quality management approach beyond traditional compliance
- Willingness to relocate from Zurich to Amsterdam for the global role
Looking Ahead
In this pivotal position with potential for VP-track advancement, the candidate will lead Danone’s global transformation of supplier quality management, reporting directly to the Senior Vice President of Quality & Food Safety while serving as a member of the Global QFS Board. Their appointment strengthens Danone’s leadership team during a critical transformation period, with clear measures of success including enhanced raw material quality, stronger procurement partnerships, global standardization of quality processes, and elevated team expertise.
The role offers the candidate significant growth opportunities while enabling Danone to advance its strategic objectives in quality management and supplier relationships across all categories.
At LS International, we specialize in connecting companies with exceptional talent in the consumer industry. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your executive search objectives.
