Chief People Officer – Nature’s Pride

The one-of-a-kind challenge.

Nature's Pride BV – part of Norwegian BAMA Gruppen- is Europe's largest importer of exotic fruits and vegetables in Europe. The company is mainly known as the organisation that made the avocado popular in Europe. Since its founding in 2001 Nature’s Pride has grown rapidly, and the success is recognizable in the positive vibe within the company. Nature’s Pride has around 450 permanent employees, works with more than 400 growers in 53 countries and sells to more than 360 customers (retailers, wholesale exporters and foodservices) in Europe. The high quality is the result of many factors: the passion of the growers, the dedication of employees, the unique expertise of the ripening process and the attractive in-store presentation (i.e. EatMe brand labels). At the same time, Nature’s Pride wants to contribute to a healthy, sustainable and social world. In 2023 Nature’s Pride has defined its top three priorities: People, Added Value and Profitable growth. The purpose for People isdefined as : “All colleagues feel seen, heard and appreciated, are able to contribute and develop in their function, experience good working conditions, and are proud to be part of the company”. To this background you will act as Chief People Officer (CPO) and contribute to the transformation in which leadership, and change have been put high on the agenda.

View the Nature’s Pride website. 

What to expect from Nature’s Pride?

At Nature’s Pride, you’ll immerse yourself in a dynamic and informal people driven environment where passion for quality products meets a commitment to sustainability. People at Nature’s Pride are very engaged and proud of their company, living the core values: Passion, Pioneer, Together and Responsible. Nature’s Pride will give you the opportunity to continue developing, and work in engaged teams where you can make a difference as a professional, leader and as a person. A new step in your career where you can use your HR expertise, business sense, leadership and curiosity for a stronger company and contribute to a better world.

Primary and secondary conditions.

• Fulltime
• Base salary approx. €150K depending on seniority, plus bonus (20%) and lease car
• A vibrant team atmosphere in a dynamic, forward-thinking company
• Location: Maasdijk (Zuid Holland)

The one-of-a-kind of professional who fits.

You have a clear and inspiring vision on People,

And you are able to translate Nature’s Pride strategy to a sound HR vision, processes and deliverables.

You are a trusted advisor and business partner,

with an open mind and broad business view.

You have a pragmatic, energetic and proactive attitude,

that fits in the Westland no nonsense culture.

You are a humorous, balanced, empathetic and warm person,

who easily communicates and relates to all colleagues.

You are a true team player and coach,

who creates the context for colleagues to perform and shine.

You are Nature’s Pride’s change agent,

not only for your team but also for the Executive team and managers.

Like no one else,

you know to walk the talk.

What will you be doing?

As the Chief People Officer you are part of the Executive team. You will report to the CEO of Nature’s Pride, Adriëlle Dankier, with a dotted line to BAMA Gruppen's CHRO (Trine Boilesen). You lead the M&O (Mens & Organisatie) team, consisting of 9 colleagues, of which 3 advisors, a Services team of 1 manager and 3 colleagues and 2 recruiters. You focus on, redesign and drive the implementation of attractive policies regarding topics such as change management; leadership; employer branding; performance management; employee engagement; learning and development; talent development; and, health & vitality. You drive the professionalism of the M&O team at strategic, tactical, and operational levels, enhancing their visibility and expertise within the organization. Besides the M&O team you are also responsible for Facilities team, managed by a Manager Facilities, and consisting of 10 colleagues. Facilities coveres 3 different aspects: reception (2 persons), building and equipment facilities (a projectmanager, coördinator and employee), 1 restaurant manager with a team of 4 colleagues.Additionally, you keep in contact with the Works Council and stay abreast of HR developments within BAMA Gruppen. As a company representative, you actively engage in local employer networks.

What does Nature’s Pride expect from you?

In addition to resonating with the description above of the one-of-a-kind professional that fits, we expect:

• A Master's degree in HR or related field
• Extensive experience in HR leadership roles, within different companies and industries like international Food retail, Distribution or FMCG
• State of the art vision on People Management and in-depth knowledge of all HR aspects
• Proven experience in change management and leadership development
• Lives in the region of Rotterdam or The Hague
• Good understanding of Governance, preferably experience as a member of a Supervisory Board.

The selected candidates will be invited for a first interview with the CEO and CPO (a.i) at the office of Nature's Pride in Maasdijk. After these interviews will follow with the Executive team members, colleagues of the M&O team, some managers (MT) and the CHRO of BAMA. An executive assessment will also be part of the process.

Are you the Chief People Officer that leads with a heart for people and business at Nature’s Pride? Respond by clicking the button above, or call Saskia Blonk (+31 6 518 131 03) for further information.