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Preparing Your Team for Future Challenges in the CPG Industry

The future of work is evolving—are your teams ready? Here’s how CPG brands can prepare their workforce for the challenges and opportunities ahead. 

As automation, AI, and digital transformation continue to reshape the landscape, the CPG industry faces a crucial turning point: adapt or fall behind. To thrive, companies need to invest in future-proofing their workforce by developing the skills, structures, and strategies necessary to meet emerging challenges head-on. 

The Future of Work in CPG: What’s Changing? 

Automation is not just a buzzword—it’s transforming every aspect of the CPG value chain. While some jobs are becoming obsolete, new high-skill roles are emerging, particularly in data science, software development, and AI. By 2030, the demand for consumer goods could create up to 190 million new jobs globally, many of which will require skills that are not traditionally found in the CPG sector . 

However, the transformation extends beyond just job creation. At least 40% of tasks in CPG occupations are automatable, pushing companies to rethink how they structure their workforce. To navigate this shift, companies must prioritize reskilling, invest in new technologies, and embrace agile ways of working that foster adaptability. 

Key Strategies for Future-Proofing Your Workforce 

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Invest in Reskilling and Upskilling: 

Automation is changing the nature of work, making reskilling critical. CPG companies need to implement training programs that focus on developing skills in data analytics, digital marketing, and supply chain management. Such programs not only future-proof your workforce but also boost job security and employee satisfaction. 

Redefine Job Roles and Career Paths: 

Future CPG roles will require a blend of cross-functional expertise and technical skills. Establishing expert tracks—highly compensated career paths designed for technical talent—can help attract and retain the skills you need. This approach allows employees to pursue diverse career paths while enhancing their value within the organization. 

Leverage Agile Workforce Models: 

Embracing agile, cross-functional teams can help companies respond quickly to market shifts. Instead of assigning specialists to specific brands, creating global talent pools allows companies to draw on expertise as needed, accelerating decision-making and fostering innovation. 

Case Study: How a Leading CPG Brand Future-Proofed Its Workforce   

Brand Spotlight: A Global CPG Brand’s Workforce Transformation 

A major CPG company recognized that the skills needed for future success were shifting rapidly. Facing talent shortages in high-tech areas, the company launched a comprehensive strategy to attract, retain, and develop the right talent. 

Approach: 

The company created expert tracks for high-demand skills, offering flexible career paths and competitive compensation to make these roles more attractive. It also introduced extensive training programs, with over 10,000 employees participating globally. This reskilling initiative helped the company build a robust talent pool equipped to handle future challenges. 

Additionally, the company restructured its workforce into agile, cross-functional teams that draw from global talent pools. These teams operate with greater flexibility, enabling the company to scale new ideas quickly and respond to market demands. A dedicated big-data center was also established, emphasizing data fluency as a core competency for its workforce  

Outcomes: 

The strategic changes led to a 20% increase in new product launches annually and faster decision-making processes. Employees reported higher job satisfaction due to continuous learning opportunities and diverse work experiences. This case demonstrates that future-proofing your workforce not only meets today’s needs but positions the company for long-term success. 

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Planning for the Future: Key Takeaways 

Prioritize Data and Technology Skills: 

As technology evolves, ensure your workforce is equipped with skills in data analytics, AI, and digital tools. These skills will be essential for staying competitive and making data-driven decisions. 

Embrace Flexibility and Agility: 

Move away from rigid departmental structures in favor of project-based teams that can adapt quickly. Agile workforce models enhance your ability to respond to market shifts. 

Focus on Continuous Learning: 

Foster a culture of ongoing education and skills development. Encourage employees to engage in training that aligns with emerging industry needs, ensuring your workforce remains adaptable. 

Conclusion: Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Workforce 

Future-proofing your workforce is not just about adapting to change—it’s about leading it. By investing in your team’s skills, redefining roles, and embracing agile work models, CPG companies can position themselves to thrive in an evolving market landscape. 

Our Impact

In 1995, our founders embarked on a journey that would disrupt the status quo of the executive recruiting industry. We have been transforming companies and lives ever since.

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9,395

First Round Interviews

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3,000+

Total Placements

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47%

Diversity Placements

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$700M

Economic Impact

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Brent Albertson

CEO, Zing Zang LLC

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“ Our experience with Protis Global has been very positive. They have strong multi-industry CPG experience and understand our business model and standards. They know the difference between an “A-player” and a “B-player” in several functions, and the honesty around that standard helps us move faster. Mike and team set up a great process, especially in early canvassing and vetting that helps our leaders engage at the right time and make decisions fast. ”

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Colin Nolan

Executive Vice President, Mark Anthony Brewing Inc.

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“Protis Global’s approach to talent acquisition is marked by diligence, transparency, and a genuine dedication to client satisfaction. Their strategic insights and personalized service have made a substantial impact on our organization, ensuring that we always have the best professionals driving our initiatives forward. The team at Protis Global demonstrates a keen ability to identify individuals who not only possess the requisite skills but also align seamlessly with our company culture.”

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Hilal Tabsh

Chief Revenue Officer, Glass House Brands

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Cannabis

“Over the last 10+ years my experience with Michael Bitar and the Protis Global team has been exceptional across multiple industries. Michael and his team work to get to the true needs of my hiring plan and partner with us throughout the process. They understand our business, company culture, what success looks like, and then propose candidates that will produce results while also fitting into our team dynamic. Overall it’s a great team and experience and I would recommend to anyone looking to hire top-notch quality candidates reach out to Protis Global and Michael Bitar.”

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Peter Iglesias

Chief Executive Officer, Bespoken Spirits

Beer, Wine, & Spirits
Beer, Wine, & Spirits

“I highly recommend Protis Global as a top-notch recruiting agency. I have had the pleasure of working with them for the past 15 years, both as a candidate and employer in the Spirits and Wine industry. In my 25 years of experience, I have found Protis Global to be the most efficient and effective recruiting agency I have ever dealt with. Protis Global has consistently come through for me in the clutch, providing exceptional professionalism and execution in job searches and placements. Their dedication to finding the right fit for both candidates and employers sets them apart from other agencies. I have always been impressed by their ability to understand the needs of both parties and successfully connect them in a timely manner.”

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Soley Van Lokeren

SVP, People

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“I have been in the field of human resources for over thirty years, in executive level roles both in-house and in outsourced positions. Michael Bitar is my favorite talent acquisition professional with which I have ever worked. He cares deeply about building a relationship with his clients, learning their business, culture, challenges, and truly understanding the needs of a role requisition. His approach is mirrored by the rest of the Protis team, who are courteous, thorough, and who make you feel like you are their only client. Protis successfully delivered hires for our Chief Commercial Officer role and for three key challenging roles (in both Marketing and Sales). They are simply – the best!”

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Brian Kuz

Chief Sales Officer

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

“Protis is unique in their go-to-market strategy in that they not only find the right candidate for the role, but they find the right opportunity and company for the candidate. Protis Global looks for people who are ready to make a change...I will continue to recommend Protis Global as one of the best placement agencies in the World, as I have worked on every continent and have dealt with the big executive placement firms and the boutique ones. Protis shines above all, and as long as I am hiring, I will continue to go to Protis Global first, if not exclusively.”

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Chris Hall

CEO, poppi

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“Partnering with Protis Global has been a game-changer for poppi. They understood our vision and the unique challenges we faced as a rapidly growing brand. Their expertise in executive search helped us find the right leaders who not only fit our culture but also brought the skills and passion needed to drive accelerated growth. The Protis Global team actively took our feedback and adapted the search so that we could focus on what we do best – creating innovative, healthy beverages that our customers love. They’ve truly become an extension of our team, and we couldn’t imagine achieving our success without the team members they helped us to bring aboard.”

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Chad Palma

President of Sales, Spindrift

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“Michael Bitar and the Protis team have been such a pleasure to work with over the years. Not only do they do amazing work with recruiting but we have also developed a partnership between our two companies. Michael and his team provide a crucial role in reviewing my hiring needs at the beginning of each year. Once the review is complete, Michael begins searching for quality candidates that fit the role and culture for Spindrift. He and his team do an outstanding job of finding the right candidates for the position in need. I highly recommend Michael and the Protis team for your hiring needs.”

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John Sacksteder

President, Mark Anthony Brewing Inc

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“From the start, the relationship with Protis Global was different than other recruiting firms.  The team had a deeper level of commitment and desire to learn about our business than I had experienced with other firms. Our company was experiencing a time of exponential growth and our staffing needs were complex. We needed very experienced people across every possible function in the Operation and Supply Chain Teams and we needed them in a hurry. The Protis Global Team mobilized quickly and established a methodology to identify strong candidates and work them through the interview process in a professional and timely manner. Their grit, determination, understanding our needs and culture, sense of urgency and drive to exceed our expectations set them apart from the pack.”

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Kathleen Hutchison

Senior National Account Manager at Arla Foods

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

Kayla was awesome and very thorough in her vetting of candidates. She understood our brief as we were looking for candidates and helped to weed through those who were not a good fit for the role. 

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Thomas Frisch

Chief People Officer at IJW Whiskey

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“The team worked quickly and efficiently to find a unique position.”

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Kim Nguyen

VP of Supply Chain at Lallemand

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

Everyone involved was extremely helpful - Gary, Michael, Ben - thank you!! The team didn't only search for candidates based on the job description, but also the qualities that I look for in candidates. 

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Shashank Gaur

VP of Product Technology & Innovation

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

The interview process was smooth and extremely professional. Ben and team represented me as much as they represented the company. 

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Jeremy Schulman

Regional Business Manager - Foodservice

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

Consistent communication, updates, and detailed knowledge of the client. The whole experience was top notch!

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Blake T. Bermingham

Supply Chain Manager

Beer, Wine, & Spirits
Beer, Wine, & Spirits

Very simplistic process finding the right role for the right candidate...keep up the great work! 

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Don Stohrer Jr.

CEO, Arla Foods USA

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

“We’ve been a Protis Global client for eight years, and during this time have always appreciated the thoroughness of the recruitment process, as the candidates brought to us have been well-vetted, not only from a competency perspective, but more importantly from a [cultural] fit dynamic. Mike and the team have always been highly engaged to ensure they bring us candidates that match our culture. That’s been critical to the success of the candidates that have landed here by way of our relationship with Protis.”

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