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.

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.

• 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 restructurin
• 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

• 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 impac
• 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.

• Fluency in Dutch and English is required