The Organization

For one of our clients, a leading B2B distributor in the Netherlands and Belgium and part of a large international group, we are searching for a Commercial Manager Benelux to lead the next phase of commercial growth.

The company supplies a broad portfolio of materials, equipment and technical services to professional customers across the Benelux. In a market where customers increasingly look for complete solutions, the company is looking for an experienced commercial leader who can bring direction, structure and energy, and who wants to make a real impact as part of the Management Team.

The Role

As Commercial Manager Benelux, you are responsible for sales in the Netherlands and Belgium, business development and purchasing. You are a member of the Management Team and act as the commercial right hand of the General Manager. You translate the company’s ambition into a clear commercial strategy and lead a team of around 30 professionals.

A key objective is to build one strong Benelux commercial organisation and to move the business from product selling to solution selling, combining products, equipment and services. You work closely with your fellow Management Team members to retain and grow customers, strengthen supplier partnerships and deliver profitable growth.

The role requires a rare combination of strategic thinking, people leadership and commercial drive. You are someone who sets clear direction, motivates people through change and is visible in the market.

The position is based at the company’s head office in the greater Amsterdam area, and regular travel within the Benelux is part of the role.

The Ideal Candidate

Experience

• 10+ years of commercial leadership experience in a B2B environment, including leading large teams
• Strong background in distribution or wholesale
• Proven experience in both the Dutch and the Belgian market
• Track record in leading change, such as integrating businesses or restructuring a commercial organisation
• Experience with solution selling, key account development and close cooperation with purchasing and category management
• Management Team experience, contributing to strategy beyond the commercial function

Skills

• Strategic and structured. Translates ambition into clear priorities, plans and frameworks
• Connecting people leader. Builds trust across teams, countries and cultures, and brings people together into one team
• Clear and direction-setting. Sets expectations, creates accountability and follows up consistently
• Independent thinker. Curious, asks the difficult questions and acts as a true sparring partner, not a yes-man
• Commercially sharp. Understands the drivers of revenue, margin and cost-to-serve, and negotiates strongly with customers and suppliers
• Hands-on and resilient. Close to customers and teams, and keeps focus and composure in times of change

Language Requirements

• Fluency in Dutch and English is required. French is a strong plus

Interested?

Please submit your CV in English. Reference and diploma checks are a standard part of the procedure; assessments and pre-employment screening may also be included