Operations Director – Leading Global Pharmaceutical Solutions Provider

A leading global  pharmaceutical wholesaler and healthcare solutions provider is seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead its Dutch operations through the next phase of transformation and performance.

The Role

This is a senior leadership position responsible for warehousing, transport, and supply & demand planning with full board visibility. Following a major site consolidation, the focus is on stabilizing operations, embedding planning excellence, and delivering efficiency and customer reliability.

Background and Experience

·      Minimum 10–15 years in supply chain or logistics roles, including at least 3 years in executive leadership. Proven ability to lead large teams across multiple sites.

·      Strong track record in managing operations within unionized settings. Familiar with labour regulations, negotiation, and leading transformation

·      Experience in regulated industries (e.g. pharma, healthcare, food) with exposure to GDP/GMP compliance would be ideal.

·      Demonstrated success in network modernization, automation, ERP/WMS/ implementation, and operational restructuring.

·      Ownership of large-scale operational budgets and proven capability in cost management, budget discipline, and investment planning.

·      Preferably has worked in or alongside international operations or regional structures. Comfortable navigating matrix environments and collaborating across border

Personal Skills

·      Strategic Leadership & Vision: Able to define and communicate a clear operational roadmap aligned with divisional goals. Capable of mobilizing cross-functional teams and balancing short- and long-term priorities.

·      Change Management: Skilled in leading transformation in complex, unionized settings. Effective in driving cultural change while maintaining operational continuity.

·      Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of P&L dynamics, cost structures, and performance levers in operations. Able to translate strategic goals into operational and financial impact.

·      Stakeholder Engagement: High-level communication and influencing skills, with experience working across internal departments (Finance, Quality, HR, IT) and with external partners  (3PLs, unions, customers).

·      Talent Development & Team Leadership: Proven ability to build and retain motivated, high[1]performing teams.

·      Customer Excellence: Committed to service quality, customer satisfaction, and delivery reliability. Balances commercial demands with operational execution.

·      Resilience & Agility: Calm and effective under pressure, with experience managing real-time disruptions and adapting in dynamic, complex environments.

Language Proficiency

• Fluency in Dutch and English is required