ABOUT DEPARTER - THE KNOW-WHO PEOPLE

Departer is a leading German Executive Search firm with over 20 years of experience in global leadership recruitment. We specialize in placing executives in medium-sized enterprises and private equity portfolio firms across DACH, MEAI, ASIA, and ANZ regions. With a deep understanding of the DACH economy, we facilitate successful placements within global management teams across corporate headquarters and entities abroad.

With over 15 years of experience in France, our client has become a key player in the biogas, wastewater, agriculture and several industrial sectors. As a leading German family-owned manufacturer known for its high-quality engineering and customer-centric approach, the company delivers innovative solutions such as pumps, spreading technology, macerators, and separators that drive efficiency across various industries. The company’s commitment to excellence and tailored service has earned it a strong reputation in the market. Joining this organization means being part of a global success story, driving innovation and growth in essential industrial markets.

As the Managing Director (m/f/d), you will spearhead the growth of the company in France and ensure alignment with the strategic goals set by the German headquarters. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire operation, with a focus on sales, service, and market development whilst closely collaborating with the relevant departments in the German headquarters.

Your duties and responsibilities will include:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic plan to expand the company's footprint across the French market
• Identify new business opportunities and build relationships with clients and partners in key sectors such as biogas, wastewater, agriculture, and industrial machinery
• Act as the Head of Sales, leading the sales team and personally managing high-profile accounts to drive revenue growth
• Lead and mentor a team of 28 professionals across sales, service, marketing, and operations, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work culture
• Oversee local operations, including sales, service, repair, local HR, marketing, and inside sales, ensuring all functions work seamlessly with the broader global organization
• Manage financial performance, including budgeting, reporting, and ensuring profitability in alignment with corporate objectives
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, partners, and government bodies
• Represent the company at industry events and conferences, enhancing its visibility and credibility in the market
• Organize training for staff to ensure continuous improvement in product knowledge and process efficiency
• Shape and drive the company’s long-term vision and business strategies, ensuring alignment with global objectives while adapting to local market needs
• Inspire innovation and transformation by proactively identifying market shifts and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and agility
• Establish and maintain a high-level network of key decision-makers and influencers in the industry to strengthen the company’s competitive position and enhance strategic partnerships
• Collaborate closely with the internal departments Industrial and Wastewater, Agriculture, and Transportation, while coordinating with the Managing Director in Germany and the financial team at headquarters

To be successful in this role you should have the following skills and experiences:

• A degree in Mechanical, Process, Electrical or Chemical Engineering, with a strong understanding of industrial machinery (technically oriented professionals from other occupational groups are also welcome)
• At least 7 years of experience in industrial machinery sales, with a track record of driving revenue growth
• Experience managing teams of 15+ people across sales, service, and marketing is essential
• Expertise in B2B sales of machines is mandatory, with preferred experience in biogas, wastewater, and agricultural machinery sectors
• Experience with pumps or related equipment is advantageous but not required
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement sales, service, and marketing strategies while leading cross-functional teams
• Strong strategic thinking, with the ability to shape and implement long-term business strategies while ensuring operational excellence
• Proven ability to adapt and lead in dynamic, fast-moving environments, with a focus on innovation and market responsiveness
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with a track record of building and maintaining strong relationships with industry leaders, government bodies, and key decision-makers
• Familiarity with CRM systems (Salesforce preferred)
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required