About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global leader in the food and beverage industry, renowned for its portfolio of beloved brands that delight consumers worldwide. In the UK, PepsiCo proudly produces some of the nation's favourite snacks and drinks, including Walkers crisps, Quaker oats, Doritos, Pipers, and Monster Munch. With manufacturing sites strategically located across the country—such as the Quaker mill in Cupar, the Doritos factory in Coventry, and one of the world’s largest crisp factories in Leicester—PepsiCo UK is at the heart of the nation's snacking culture. As we look to the future, PepsiCo is relocating its UK office to a state-of-the-art location in vibrant Reading town centre by the end of 2025, just minutes from Reading train station. This move underscores our commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and accessibility for our teams.

At PepsiCo, sustainability and growth are core pillars. We're on a mission to double our Away From Home (AFH) business in the UK over the next 2-5 years, expanding our presence in key channels like convenience stores, travel hubs, workplaces, and hospitality venues. This ambitious agenda requires dynamic leaders who can accelerate projects and bridge commercial strategies with flawless execution.

Role Overview

The Away From Home Project Acceleration Manager is a 6-month Fixed Term Contract (FTC) role based in Reading, United Kingdom, embedded within the AFH team. This pivotal position sits at the intersection of Commercial account teams, omni-channel Marketing & Brand functions, driving transformational growth across our Snacks and Grains UK business. You'll lead and accelerate key strategic AFH projects, ensuring cross-functional alignment and seamless execution of priority initiatives. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to PepsiCo's goal of doubling the UK AFH business, bringing commercial and brand strategies to life in high-impact channels.

As Project Acceleration Manager, you'll manage end-to-end project plans, coordinate with diverse stakeholders, and standardize best practices for scalable growth. Ideal for organized professionals with a passion for project management in the fast-paced food and beverage sector, this role demands precision, communication, and relationship-building expertise.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership and Planning

Lead the end-to-end project plans for critical AFH initiatives, such as Picture of Success, ensuring timelines, milestones, and deliverables are met with precision.

Cross-Functional Coordination

Serve as the central point of coordination between Commercial, Brand, Operations, and external partners, fostering alignment and resolving any blockers swiftly.

Vendor and Agency Management

Scope and manage interactions with vendors and agencies, overseeing production, quality control, and delivery deadlines to maintain project momentum.

Implementation and Optimization

Support the deployment phase of projects, identifying efficiencies, standardizing best practices, and scaling programs effectively across channels.

Commercial Tracking and Governance

Collaborate with Sales teams to track commercial business cases, own project management tools (assigning actions, risks, issues), and govern project requests in line with priorities and plans.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel in this role, candidates must demonstrate exceptional organizational prowess, managing multiple priorities through structured workflows and meticulous attention to detail. Strong communication skills are essential, enabling you to convey complex information into actionable insights for stakeholders at all levels. Proven ability to build collaborative relationships across functions is key, as you'll navigate a matrixed environment with Commercial, Marketing, Operations, and external partners.

Prior experience in project management within the food & beverage or consumer goods sector is highly desirable, along with familiarity with AFH channels. Proficiency in project management tools and a results-oriented mindset will set you apart. This FTC role is perfect for interim leaders seeking high-visibility impact at PepsiCo UK.

Benefits & Perks

Joining PepsiCo means access to a supportive, innovative culture with perks tailored to modern professionals. Enjoy working in our upcoming premium office in Reading town centre, offering easy commutes via train. Benefit from collaboration with world-class brands and teams driving multibillion-pound growth. Additional perks include competitive compensation (estimated £65,000 - £95,000 GBP annually), flexible working options, and comprehensive health & wellness support. As part of PepsiCo's global network, you'll gain exposure to cutting-edge strategies in snacks and grains.

Career Growth

This 6-month FTC is a launchpad for ambitious professionals. High performers often transition to permanent roles within PepsiCo's expansive UK and international operations. Gain hands-on experience in strategic project acceleration, cross-functional leadership, and AFH growth—skills transferable to senior management. PepsiCo invests in talent through leadership development programs, mentorship, and internal mobility across sites like Leicester, Coventry, and beyond.

Why Join Us

PepsiCo UK offers more than a job—it's a chance to shape the future of snacking Away From Home. Be part of doubling our AFH business, work on transformative projects, and collaborate in a new, vibrant office. With iconic brands and a commitment to sustainability, PepsiCo provides purpose-driven work in a premium environment. Reading's location combines urban energy with excellent connectivity to London and beyond, ideal for work-life balance.

Role FAQs

Is this a permanent role?

This is a 6-month Fixed Term Contract with potential for extension or permanent opportunities based on performance and business needs.

What is the Away From Home (AFH) business?

AFH refers to sales channels outside traditional retail, such as workplaces, travel locations, education, healthcare, and hospitality.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated £65,000 - £95,000 GBP per year, competitive for the Food & Beverage sector in Reading, UK.

Do I need specific industry experience?

Experience in food & beverage, project management, or consumer goods is advantageous but not mandatory; strong organizational and communication skills are paramount.

When does the office move happen?

The new Reading town centre office opens at the end of 2025, enhancing accessibility and modern facilities.