Head of Sales Europe – Packaging Solutions
-Papillon Executive For Client
JOB DESCRIPTION
Head of Sales Europe – Packaging Solutions
Job Title: Head of Sales Europe – Packaging Machinery
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands (with European travel)
Reports To: Vice President, Sales & Marketing (or CEO, depending on structure)
Company: A leading European provider of industrial automation and packaging systems
About the Company
Our client is a well-established engineering company based in Northern Europe, recognized for its innovation in automation and advanced packaging technologies. With over 50 years of experience, the company designs and manufactures tailor-made machinery for global industrial customers, combining high engineering standards with a strong customer-centric approach.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and ambitious Head of Sales Europe to lead the growth of the company’s packaging machinery business across Europe. Based in Amsterdam, you will be responsible for executing the regional sales strategy, expanding the customer base, managing key accounts, and building a high-performing sales network.
This role is ideal for a hands-on, entrepreneurial sales leader with experience in technical B2B solutions and a passion for growing business in a high-potential market.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the European sales strategy for the company’s packaging machinery portfolio, targeting sectors such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and industrial manufacturing.
- Identify and capture new business opportunities, driving a robust and qualified sales pipeline.
- Establish and manage a network of regional sales agents, distributors, and strategic partners.
- Take direct ownership of key customer relationships and lead major commercial negotiations.
- Collaborate closely with engineering and delivery teams to ensure customer solutions are aligned with technical capabilities and market demands.
- Provide market analysis, customer feedback, and competitive intelligence to inform business development and product roadmaps.
- Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and key customer engagements across Europe.
- Own the regional sales forecasts, budgeting process, and delivery of revenue and profitability targets.
Key Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field; MBA is a plus.
- 7–10 years of senior sales experience in industrial machinery, ideally within packaging or automation technologies.
- Proven track record in business development and key account management across multiple European markets.
- Experience managing both direct and indirect sales models, including agents and distributors.
- Ability to communicate complex technical solutions effectively across diverse audiences.
- Fluent in English; additional European languages (e.g., German, French, Dutch) are a strong advantage.
- Willing to travel frequently within Europe (approx. 50–70%).
Personal Attributes
- Entrepreneurial, with the ability to think strategically and act operationally.
- Strong leadership and influencing capabilities; able to lead by example.
- Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
- Resilient, driven, and highly self-motivated.
- Customer-focused with strong cross-cultural awareness.
What’s on Offer
- Opportunity to lead European commercial expansion for a respected player in industrial automation.
- High-impact role with visibility and potential for advancement.
- Dynamic and collaborative work culture with solid European values.
- Competitive base salary, performance-driven bonus scheme, company car allowance, and full benefits package.
Should the above correlate with your qualifications and ambitions, contact our advisors in Papillon Executive Search: Kjell I. Johnsen 91 75 13 60 or Wenche Petlund 95 83 31 32
For further information, please contact Kjell I. Johnsen 91 75 13 60 Wenche Petlund, telefon 958 33 132
All inquiries to Papillon Executive as are treated confidentially