Are you looking to break into the exciting and ever-evolving world of Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)? Whether you’re a recent graduate ready to make your mark or an experienced professional aiming for a new career path, plenty of opportunities are available—you need the right strategy.
This guide will show you all you need to know about breaking into CPG in 2023—the jobs, the skills, and the steps that will make it easy for you to transition. Read on for helpful advice from experts at the forefront of this exciting industry!
What is a CPG career?
Employees in the consumer packaged goods industry earn an average income of $4,000 more than the national average, according to the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA). Consumer Brands Association estimates that the CPG industry supports 20.4 million American workers.
CPG industry employment in the grocery channel can be separated into manufacturers, food brokers, and retailers. CPG companies offer various careers in departments, including finance, human resources, legal, and information technology. Still, many jobs can be classified as store, corporate, or manufacturing positions.
Meaningful CPG careers in 2023
To survive and thrive in today’s evolving world, one must be well-versed in crucial areas and understand specific trends to get ahead. Not sure where to start when scouting out positions? Here are some ideas:
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) are the highest-ranking executives in a company and are responsible for overall management. The CEO sets the company’s strategic vision and makes decisions that will impact the company’s bottom line.
Chief Operating Officer
The chief operating officer (COO) is responsible for the company’s day-to-day operations. The COO oversees the company’s departments and ensures they run smoothly and efficiently. The COO reports to the CEO and is a potential successor to the CEO position.
Chief Marketing Officer
Developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote a company’s products or services is the responsibility of the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). The CMO works closely with other executives, such as the chief sales officer, to ensure that the company’s marketing efforts align with its overall business strategy.
Business Managers
Business managers in the CPG industry work with a team of executives to create strategic plans for the organization and establish short-term objectives that support long-term goals. They must also comprehensively understand the industry and its current trends to make sound decisions that will benefit the company.
Analysts
Analysts are responsible for gathering and analyzing data to inform strategic decisions. They use various methods to collect, process, and interpret data from internal reports and external sources. Their analysis provides insights into industry trends used to create more effective marketing campaigns and product development strategies.
How do I get started in a CPG career?
Here’s what it takes to start your career within the CPG field:
- Research the industry: There are many ways to do this, including reading trade publications, attending industry events, and talking to people working there. These steps will help you learn about the different types of CPG companies, the products they produce, and the skills needed to succeed in the industry.
- Identify your skills and experience: Once you have researched the CPG industry, you need to identify your skills and experience. Do you have experience working in sales or marketing? Do you have a background in science or engineering? Do you have strong communication or project management skills? Think about what you bring to the table and how it can be used in a CPG career.
- Find a company that is a good fit for you: There are many different types of CPG companies, so it is crucial to find one that aligns with your goals and values. Once you have found a few companies that interest you, reach out and start your new journey!
Find the perfect career for you.
We all want to find a career well-suited to our talents, personality traits, and goals. Carefully evaluating your options is the best way to make an informed decision about choosing a career that’s right for you.
Get ahold of Hunter & Michaels’ services, networking opportunities, and professional development resources. We’re confident we can help you with this journey as you strive to make the perfect career choice – contact us today and let’s build your CPG career!
