Why Use a CPG Recruitment Agency 

Key Takeaways from the Article: 

1. Specialized CPG recruitment agencies offer in-depth industry knowledge, crucial for identifying candidates who understand the sector’s unique dynamics. 

2. Objective candidate assessment by agencies helps overcome internal biases and ensures a thorough evaluation of both skills and cultural fit. 

3. Agencies can manage confidential hiring processes, crucial for sensitive situations in the competitive CPG landscape. 

4. Different CPG roles (e.g., C-suite, brand managers, supply chain experts) have different recruitment challenges that specialized agencies are equipped to handle. 

5. When you invest in a CPG recruitment partnership is a strategic move to build a workforce capable of driving innovation and adaptability in the evolving consumer goods landscape. 

Why You Should Use an Agency for CPG Recruitment 

With over a decade of experience in recruitment, we’ve seen what impact partnering with a specialized agency has on a company’s hiring success. The CPG sector is competitive and finding the right talent is important to ensure that your business is successful. 

The Benefits of Using a CPG Recruitment Agency 

1. Specialized Industry Knowledge 

When you partner with a CPG recruitment agency you gain access to specialized industry knowledge. We have an in-depth understanding of the industry’s nuances, trends, and challenges. This expertise allows us to identify candidates who not only have the right skills but also understand the unique dynamics of the CPG world. 

For example, when recruiting for a brand manager position, we know to look for candidates who demonstrate a strong understanding of consumer behavior, digital marketing trends, and sustainability practices which are all important elements in today’s CPG landscape. 

2. Access to a Wider Talent Pool 

CPG recruitment agencies have extensive networks within the industry. We maintain relationships with both active job seekers and passive candidates who might not be actively looking but would be open to the right opportunity. According to a LinkedIn report, 70% of the global workforce consists of passive talent who aren’t actively job searching, and 87% of active and passive candidates are open to new job opportunities. 

This access to a broader talent pool is valuable, especially where specific expertise can be hard to find. Whether you’re looking for an e-commerce specialist with FMCG experience or a supply chain expert versed in sustainable practices, an agency can tap into networks that companies might not have access to on their own. 

3. Time and Cost Efficiency 

The process for recruiting can be time-consuming process, especially for senior or specialized positions. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that the average time to fill a position is 42 days, with some specialized roles taking much longer. That is a lot of time and effort to invest into one role. 

When you outsource to an agency, you save valuable time and resources. We handle everything from initial candidate screening to scheduling interviews, allowing your internal team to focus on their core responsibilities. While there is a cost associated with using an agency, the efficiency and the quality of candidates sourced often result in a higher return on investment compared to managing the process in-house. 

4. Understanding of Current Market Rates 

Understanding market rates to offer the right compensation package is key when attracting top talent. Recruitment agencies have their finger on the pulse of current market rates and benefits packages across different roles and experience levels.  

5. Objective Candidate Assessment 

Internal biases can sometimes cloud judgment when assessing candidates. As external partners, recruitment agencies provide an objective perspective on potential hires. We use a combination of industry-standard assessment tools, behavioral interviewing techniques, and our own expertise to evaluate candidates thoroughly. 

6. Confidentiality in Sensitive Hiring Situations 

There are times when hiring needs to be conducted with a high level of discretion. This could be due to a variety of reasons – perhaps you’re replacing an underperforming executive, or you’re expanding into a new product category and want to keep it under wraps from competitors. 

Recruitment agencies can manage these sensitive situations with the utmost confidentiality. We can conduct searches without revealing the hiring company’s identity until the appropriate stage in the process, protecting your business interests while still attracting high-quality candidates. 

7. Assistance with Employer Branding 

Your brand is more important than ever. A strong employer brand can significantly impact your ability to attract top talent. According to LinkedIn, 75% of job seekers consider an employer’s brand before even applying for a job. 

Agencies can provide valuable insights into how your company is perceived in the job market and offer suggestions on how to enhance your employer brand. We can help craft compelling job descriptions, showcase your company culture, and highlight the unique aspects of working in your organization to attract the best candidates in the CPG sector. 

Different CPG Roles and Their Recruitment Challenges 

The CPG sector encompasses a wide range of roles, each with its unique recruitment challenges. Here’s an overview of some key positions and the specific benefits of using an agency for their recruitment: 

• C-Suite Executives (CEO, CFO, COO)  

Recruiting for C-level positions in the CPG sector requires discretion, an extensive network, and a deep understanding of the industry’s strategic challenges. Agencies specializing in executive recruitment have the connections and expertise to identify candidates who can navigate the complex landscape of consumer goods at the highest level. 

• Brand Managers 

Brand management roles require a unique blend of creativity, analytical skills, and business acumen. Recruitment agencies can identify candidates who not only have a track record of successful brand building but also understand the latest trends in consumer behavior and digital marketing. 

• E-commerce Specialists  

With the shift towards digital channels, the demand for e-commerce expertise has skyrocketed. Recruitment agencies can tap into their networks to find candidates with the right blend of digital savvy and industry knowledge. 

• R&D and Innovation Leaders  

Innovation is the lifeblood of the industry. Recruiting for R&D roles requires an understanding of both scientific expertise and consumer trends. Agencies can identify candidates who can bridge the gap between technical innovation and market demands. 

• Sales and Key Account Managers  

Strong sales talent is crucial. Agencies can source candidates with a proven track record of building relationships with retailers and driving sales growth in the consumer goods sector. 

Our CPG Recruitment Process 

When you partner with The Sterling Choice, you’re not just outsourcing a task – you’re entering into a strategic partnership. Here’s how the process typically unfolds: 

• Understanding Your Needs: We start by understanding of your company culture, the specific role requirements, and your long-term business objectives. 
• Crafting the Right Strategy: We develop a tailored recruitment strategy, including the channels we’ll use to source candidates and the key selling points of the role. 
• Candidate Sourcing and Screening: We make use of our networks and industry expertise to identify potential candidates, conducting initial screenings to ensure they meet the basic criteria. 
• In-depth Assessment: Promising candidates undergo a more thorough assessment, including detailed interviews and potentially psychometric testing or case studies, depending on the role. 
• Presentation of Shortlist: We present you with a shortlist of top candidates, complete with detailed profiles and our insights on each individual. 
• Interview Support: We can assist in arranging and even participating in interviews, providing an additional perspective on candidate suitability. 
• Offer Negotiation: Once you’ve identified your preferred candidate, we can help manage the offer process, using our market knowledge to ensure a smooth negotiation. 
• Onboarding Support: Our involvement doesn’t end when the offer is accepted. We can provide support during the onboarding process to ensure a successful integration of the new hire. 

The Strategic Advantage of Agency Recruitment in CPG 

Having the right talent can make the difference between leading the market and falling behind. While it’s possible to manage recruitment in-house, partnering with a specialized CPG recruitment agency like The Sterling Choice, offers strategic advantages that can significantly impact your hiring success and, by extension, your business performance. 

When you partner with a CPG recruitment agency, you’re not just filling positions – you’re building a workforce capable of driving your company forward in this exciting and challenging landscape. 

Your people are your greatest asset. Investing in the right recruitment partnership is an investment in your company’s future success.