Managing Director

The organisation

Our client DJM Food Processing creates, builds and services state-of-the-art production equipment for demanding (inter)nationally active (fast) food, comfort food and pet food producers. With a wide range of machines, DJM offers solutions for all production steps, from the input of product mix to the finished product. An extensive R&D department, advanced production techniques and their own test facilities form the basis for high-end machines and systems, in which unique patented techniques are applied.

DJM is part of the Reiser Group, a US-based company specializing in processing and packaging equipment solutions for the sausage, meat, poultry, seafood, prepared food, bakery, cheese, and pet food industries. A significant portion of DJM equipment sales is accounted for by the Reiser Group, in addition to sales through international distributors and direct sales.

The position

This SME company, with approximately 25 employees, is characterized by a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality. To further shape the growth of equipment sales and the service-activities and to lead the DJM organization, we are looking for a Managing Director.

Tasks & responsibilities

The Managing Director will be responsible for the P&L of DJM. In this role, you will lead the management team consisting of the Technical Operations Director, Finance & HR Manager, and Engineering Manager. Additionally, you will have direct leadership over sales. You will report to the Reiser Group.

Your primary objective is to progressively grow DJM. With your commercial focus, you will ensure the expansion of equipment, service, and consumables sales. Together with your team, you will focus on different channels: direct sales, distribution sales, and commercial collaborations within the Reiser Group.

You will keep a close eye on the entire P&L, being sharp on operating expenses and closely monitoring margins. You should have a strong sense for pricing and be capable of ensuring effective collaboration between sales and operations in the supply chain.

From a business management perspective, you will ensure that the talented team at DJM receives the right coaching. You are a team player and you will ensure that your employees develop and continue to grow along with DJM.

Candidate profile

You have completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a technical and/or business administration field. You have extensive experience as a Managing Director, Commercial Director or Business Unit Manager, having demonstrated the ability to formulate and implement a vision and strategy effectively. This experience should be complemented by a strong commercial profile, with a background in equipment sales, preferably within the food processing equipment sector.

The ideal candidate will have a track record in leading and closing international deals, showcasing an entrepreneurial spirit and self-starter attitude. You should possess analytical acumen and ambition, coupled with excellent communication skills in multiple languages. A pragmatic, roll-up-your-sleeves mentality is crucial, as is the ability to interpret international differences in culture, customer requirements and regulations, creating synergy between DJM and its clients.

In addition to being commercially minded, the candidate should be an allround manager who is ’tough but fair,’ balancing firmness with fairness in decision-making and interactions. This approach is complemented by a strong focus on nurturing and utilizing employee talents. As a team player, coach, and mentor, the candidate should lead by example, fostering a sense of unity and purpose within the team, while also being adept at seeking and finding collaboration and synergy within a group of companies. Fluency in Dutch and English is essential for effective communication in the international business landscape.

We are searching for a results-oriented leader who can significantly advance the company’s professionalization through structured approaches and successful growth strategies. This role requires someone who can elevate the company to new heights, leveraging their extensive experience and unique skill set.

The offer

The opportunity to be ultimately responsible within an autonomously operating niche player with a good reputation in the market. The company has a solid foundation with high-end machines and a talented, motivated team. You will be supported by an international family with strong brands. The Reiser Group is characterized as ambitious yet realistic.

Interested?

You can apply for this position by using the link below. For more information please contact the consultant in charge: Wim de Kruijf or Jan Willem Houtman, +31 346 – 87 00 20.