Overview
Our client is a specialized distributor of premium professional tools in Belgium, located close to Brussels. They seek a hands-on General Manager to lead the company through its next phase of growth.
The Role
The General Manager will be responsible for managing the company on a very operational day-to-day basis, including effective management of the team (approximately 20 people), process optimisation, business development, and full P&L responsibility. The successful candidate will inspire the team with a can-do attitude and a proven track record of managing smaller businesses.
Responsibilities
* Leadership
o Inspiring and leading the team to achieve organisational objectives
o Effective team leadership (hiring, coaching, developing talents, conflict resolution, team spirit, etc.)
* Operational Management
o Overseeing day-to-day operations and actively participating in operations
o Monitoring performance metrics to ensure KPIs are met (sales, client satisfaction, working capital, quality of service)
o Process improvements, including automation of order-taking (AI, chatbots) and handling of client complaints
* Business Development, Client and Supplier Management
o Maintaining relationships with existing suppliers (negotiating discounts, purchase conditions, brand development)
o Identifying and developing relationships with promising new suppliers
o Maintaining and developing strong client relationships with key accounts
* Financial and Resource Management
o Overseeing financial performance, including revenue and cost management
o Providing regular financial and operational updates to the Board
o Growth through acquisitions: future growth will likely be realised through acquisitions; the General Manager will play an active role in this
Qualifications
* No specific degree requirement, although reasoning at master level is a must
* Minimum 10 years of leadership/operations management experience in the context of smaller businesses
* Leadership skills with the ability to collaborate and empower others, regardless of background
* Can-do attitude; the General Manager is expected to get the job done despite challenging circumstances
* Results- and action-oriented; a real problem solver
* Ability to handle a wide variety of tasks and competing priorities
* Ability to stay calm under pressure
* Digitally savvy and a keen user of technology
* Strong written and verbal communication skills in French, Dutch, and English
* Willingness to be based in Brussels (West)
* Open to working via own management company
* Familiarity with hand tools; being a DIY enthusiast is a plus
Seniority level
* Executive
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Management
Industries
* Wholesale and Appliances, Electrical and Electronics Manufacturing
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