Head of Sales Europe

Based on the overall strategy, the Head of Sales Europe will shape and implement the commercial strategic plan and will ensure an effective translation of the overall strategy into a Sales strategy. Is internationally focused. He/she ensures that the strategy is translated into a clear operational approach into execution, manages his/her European team effectively, and delivers the P&L. The Head of Sales Europe will be a role model and will be a leader by example, continuously optimizing, developing and leading the sales function.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• The Head of Sales Europe defines the strategic business plan with corresponding budgets and translates this plan into realistic and achievable operational plans and goals
• Identifies market potential and qualification of accounts and prepares a strategic account plan/annual account plan together with the team
• The Head of Sales Europe will personally handle/be responsible for several key accounts
• Achieves (sales) goals for the short and medium term. Provides a solid forecast with the inventory and planning department based upon sales forecast prognoses. Analyzes and reports the budget and the forecast 
• Together with his/her team drives sales and activities towards customers and channels. Has a strong focus on current customers and new business opportunities. Continuously explores new markets and customers, introduces new products, and defines new product market combinations. Responsible for the daily sales business in Europe, always building on a strong business network
• Manages & coaches the European Sales team. Continuously develops and optimizes the team. Initiates and participates in regional sales meetings, weekly update meetings, and monthly international sales meetings. Leads by example 
• Realizing the annual and quarterly planning, forecasting, and budgeting 
• Controls the competences, the processes, and the management within the team
• Determines in a timely manner the personal and department-related sales targets in consultation with the CCO
• Works closely with marketing, and ensures marketing plans (e.g. innovations, brand/channel activities, etc.) are translated into an actionable sales plan. Keeps up-to-date with relevant market developments and shares this with the team
• Recommends new products and services by evaluating current product results in cooperation with product management
• Represents Vacu Vin to customers, authorities, interest groups, and fairs
• Acts as a role model and guardian towards the values and culture of the company

Competences

• Strong international mindset
• Strategic thinker, action (forecasting and planning) oriented: hands-on, pragmatic, entrepreneurial, out of the box, delivering the results
• Takes accountability: takes into account both details and the big picture when solving problems, demonstrates commitment and personal ownership, structured worker, leader by example
• Excellent leadership qualities, and a strong personality. Good team player
• Strong commercial mindset. Proactive and creative. Eager to bring your region and team to the next level
• Ensures Alignment: collaborative across functions, actively promotes “one team spirit”, involves and inspires others
• Determined, down-to-earth, no-nonsense, result-oriented
• Critical and analytical. Always with pleasure

• Completed bachelor+ education in the commercial area, in business administration, or similar
• At least eight years of commercial working experience in an international setting. A-label company, B2C/B2B experience. Proven track record in commercially building on the business 
• At least four years of managing a (small) international team. Inspiring leader 
• Excellent communicative and social skills, persuasiveness 
• Proven negotiation skills 
• Practical knowledge of CRM applications. Experience with sales reports
• Fluent in English. German, Dutch, and French are a plus
• Willing to travel (25%) 

Vacu Vin, founded in 1986, is a Dutch international manufacturer known for its high-quality products in the field of premium wine and bar accessories. Ever since Vacu Vin has gained international recognition for its practical and functional designs.

One of Vacu Vin’s most famous products is the Vacuum Wine Saver, which is used to preserve the taste of wine by keeping the opened bottle under vacuum. The company offers a large variety of wine-related accessories, such as wine coolers, wine pourers, wine-related gadgets, and a large and diverse bar and cocktail accessories assortment. Their passion for wine and Dutch Design, their innovative drive, and their social consciousness define who they are – Vacu Vin.

Vacu Vin’s products are widely available in stores and online, making it a popular choice for individuals looking for innovative and convenient tools for wine and cocktail experiences. Over the years Vacu Vin has grown into a well-known, international organization with products sold in more than 80 countries.

The global goal of Vacu Vin is to increase the turnover in the coming years. In Europe, this can be achieved by expanding market share in the consumer market, tapping into new segments, and implementing new distribution channels. Therefore, it has been decided to hire a Head of Sales Europe. This is a new role within the company. You will report to the CCO, Michiel Rodrigues Pereira, and will be working from the head office, based in Delfgauw, the Netherlands.