Freelance FMCG Consultant

Freelance FMCG Consultant (Ice Cream Manufacturing Project)Type: Contractual / FreelanceLocation: Remote with site visits as required - KolkataDuration: 6 months project-basedReporting To: Founding Team / Project DirectorAbout the ProjectWe are exploring opportunities within the frozen dessert and ice cream segment, with an emphasis on developing high-quality products backed by strong operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and scalable brand strategy. The initiative is envisioned to align with FSSAI and BIS standards while positioning for both domestic and international markets.To support this vision, we are seeking an experienced FMCG Consultant (Contractual Basis) with a strong background in food manufacturing setup, operational planning, and compliance—preferably in the dairy, frozen food, or confectionery sectors. The ideal candidate would also have the potential to transition into a leadership or CXO-level role upon the successful rollout of the brand.Key ResponsibilitiesProject Planning & SetupAdvise on end-to-end setup of the ice cream manufacturing unit — layout, capacity planning, equipment selection, vendor identification, and utility requirements.Prepare and review project feasibility reports, cost estimations, and ROI models.Recommend best practices for hygiene, workflow design, and quality assurance in line with FSSAI and BIS standards.Regulatory & ComplianceGuide on all licensing and certification requirements — including FSSAI (State/Central), Pollution Control Board, Factory Licence, Fire & Safety, and local municipal approvals.Ensure compliance with IS 2802:2022, FSSAI Dairy Product Standards, and food safety audits.Process DevelopmentAssist in standardizing formulations, raw material sourcing, and production SOPs for ice cream and related frozen desserts.Recommend equipment specifications (mixing, pasteurization, homogenization, aging, freezing, cold storage, and packaging lines).Vendor & Supply Chain AdvisoryIdentify reliable vendors for machinery, refrigeration, packaging, and raw materials.Advise on establishing a cold chain logistics network for procurement and distribution.Quality & SafetyDevelop a Quality Control and Assurance (QC/QA) framework, including testing protocols, record keeping, and microbial testing schedules.Implement food safety systems like HACCP/ISO 22000 (if applicable).Operational OptimizationRecommend cost-effective solutions for power, water, waste management, and manpower planning.Provide a roadmap for scaling production, optimizing costs, and achieving sustainable operations.Reporting & DocumentationPrepare detailed reports, documentation templates, and SOPs.Present progress reports to the management team on milestones and key deliverables.Key DeliverablesComplete feasibility report and project planDetailed machinery and vendor recommendation reportCompliance roadmap (FSSAI, BIS, PCB, Factory Licence, etc.)SOPs for production, hygiene, and quality assuranceFinal operational setup and commissioning guidanceQualificationsBachelor’s/Master’s in Food Technology, Dairy Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.8–15 years of experience in FMCG/Food Processing Industry, with at least 3 years in ice cream, frozen desserts, or dairy manufacturing setup.Proven experience in plant setup, operations optimization, and quality/regulatory compliance.Familiarity with Indian food standards (FSSAI, BIS, ISO 22000, HACCP).Strong network of equipment vendors and suppliers within the FMCG domain.Skills RequiredTechnical understanding of ice cream manufacturing processProject management and vendor coordinationRegulatory and documentation expertiseCosting, budgeting, and feasibility analysisStrong communication and presentation skillsAbility to work independently and deliver within timelinesContract TermsEngagement: Freelance / Project BasisDuration: 6 monthsCompensation: Negotiable – based on experience and deliverablesMode of Work: Hybrid (Remote + Site Visits as required)Deliverable-Based Payment Structure