Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)
Location: Toronto or Montreal
Duration: 18 months
Context
Our client is a mid-sized Canadian CPG manufacturer entering a decisive phase of its development. The company is seeking an experienced and hands-on Interim Chief Executive Officer to provide clear direction, reinforce leadership across functions, and drive operational and financial performance.
This mandate requires a senior executive capable of quickly assessing the situation, setting priorities, and ensuring disciplined execution while preserving the organization’s entrepreneurial spirit and customer focus.
Mission
The Interim CEO will assume full P&L responsibility and lead the company through a phase of stabilization and renewed growth. Working closely with the Board and leadership team, they will realign operations, rebuild cohesion, and secure business continuity while preparing the company for its next chapter.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess the organization’s current performance and establish a clear action plan aligned with strategic priorities.
- Lead and mobilize the management team around short-term objectives and long-term vision.
- Strengthen governance, operational discipline, and accountability across all functions.
- Drive commercial performance, cost management, and profitability improvement.
- Ensure strong relationships with key customers, suppliers, and financial partners.
- Prepare and support potential organizational or leadership transitions.
- Report regularly to the Board on progress, risks, and milestones achieved.
Profile
- Proven experience as CEO, General Manager, or COO within CPG or manufacturing environments.
- Strong track record in managing complex organizations, ideally during transformation or growth phases.
- Strategic yet hands-on leadership style, capable of acting quickly and decisively.
- Demonstrated ability to unite teams, clarify priorities, and deliver measurable impact.
- Financial acumen and operational rigor, with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Bilingual (English/French) is mandatory.
- Confident, pragmatic, and results-oriented leader who delivers stability and momentum from day one.
