Principal Strategist, Innovation

Are you a visionary in CPG innovation with a passion for shaping the future of consumer products? Mintel is seeking a Principal Strategist, Innovation to lead the charge in delivering transformative insights and foresight to our global clients.  

 About the Role  

As Mintel’s authority on CPG Innovation (Beauty and/or Food & Drink), you’ll be at the forefront of market influence and client impact. This role blends deep expertise in consumer and market dynamics with strategic foresight to guide brands through the innovation lifecycle—from white space identification to product launch and beyond.  

 You’ll be a trusted advisor, a thought leader, and a public-facing voice for Mintel, driving conversations that shape the industry.  

 Key Responsibilities  

•  Client Engagement & Insight Activation (70%)  

•  Deliver high-impact presentations, workshops, and webinars  

•  Advise global CPG clients on future-facing innovation strategies  

•  Lead trend forecasting and custom analysis engagements  

•  Industry Influence & Organizational Impact (20%)  

•  Represent Mintel at conferences and in media commentary  

•  Collaborate with PR and Marketing to amplify brand visibility  

•  Mentor strategists and content creators  

•  Content Development & Strategic Foresight (10%)  

•  Create proprietary, forward-looking innovation content  

•  Identify strategic white space opportunities across categories  

•  Enhance syndicated content with deep analytical foresight  

What Success Looks Like  

•  Strong client retention and growth through strategic engagements  

•  Elevated Mintel brand presence in the innovation space  

•  Personal recognition as a thought leader in CPG innovation  

Who You Are  

•  Experienced: 10+ years in research, strategic insights, or marketing intelligence, with a focus on CPG product innovation  

•  Innovative: Proven track record of identifying and executing white space opportunities  

•  Credible: Confident communicator with evidence-backed perspectives and objection-handling finesse  

•  Visionary: Skilled in forecasting market trends and crafting compelling narratives  

•  Collaborative: A team player who thrives across Commercial, Consulting, Insights, and Marketing functions  

•  Proactive: You build your brand alongside Mintel’s, driving growth through client success  

•  Networker – at ease networking across both the market research and CPG innovation industries. 

Location: Hybrid (2 days/week in London office) with frequent travel based on client needs 

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