Freelance Country Manager – Retail, Netherlands, Belgium

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Netherlands.

📋 Description

• Establish and cultivate strategic partnerships with major retail clients in the Netherlands and Belgium (including Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Colruyt, Delhaize, Carrefour Belgium, ALDI/LIDL Benelux).

• Lead negotiations for listings, annual trading discussions, commercial terms, and expansion of distribution.

• Develop scalable retail partnerships from initial contact to sustained growth.

• Analyze the retail landscape in Benelux and devise a comprehensive growth strategy for both markets.

• Determine pricing strategies, product assortments, and channel strategies for the Netherlands and Belgium.

• Plan and implement local trade marketing initiatives in collaboration with the ahead team.

• Conduct competitor analysis, market research, and regular business reporting.

• Identify, select, and manage distribution partners, brokers, and local collaborators.

• Establish relevant KPIs and ensure effective distribution, visibility, and execution at points of sale.

• Assume responsibility for demand planning and forecasting for the Benelux region.

• Propel market performance and prioritize initiatives for growth.

⛳️ Requirements

• Several years of experience in FMCG sales or key account management within the Netherlands and/or Belgium.

• In-depth knowledge of the Benelux retail framework, purchasing processes, and trade dynamics.

• Experience in developing a market or a new category, preferably in a start-up or scale-up setting.

• A robust network of buyers, category managers, and key retail decision-makers.

• Confident negotiator with a background in listings, trading terms, and annual negotiations.

• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach.

• Strong sense of initiative, ownership, and results-driven focus.

• Proficient in Dutch and English; French is a plus for the Belgian market.

🏝️ Benefits

• Enjoy ahead snacks, beverages, and merchandise - we’ve got you sorted.

• €50 monthly allowance to spend as you wish - on Urban Sports Club, mobility options, or vouchers from your favorite brands (IKEA, MediaMarkt, Lego, and more).

• Benefit from 28 vacation days plus two additional days off on December 24 (Christmas Eve) and December 31 (New Year’s Eve).

• Participate in regular after-work gatherings and memorable annual team retreats you won’t forget.