Business Unit Director – Retail (Italy)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Business Unit Director to lead our Retail Business Unit in Italy. You will be responsible for defining and executing the unit’s strategy, driving profitable growth, and ensuring operational excellence across multiple logistics sites.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement the Retail BU strategy and roadmap.
• Lead end‑to‑end logistics operations (warehousing, distribution, value‑added services) across several locations.
• Ensure operational efficiency, scalability and service excellence.
• Manage capacity planning to address seasonal peaks.
• Own full P&L accountability and manage operating budgets.
• Drive cost optimisation and ROI‑focused initiatives.
• Monitor financial KPIs and achieve performance targets.
• Lead change‑management, expansion of existing contracts and new site start‑ups.
• Support commercial activities, solution design and business case development.
• Strengthen relationships with key customers and stakeholders.
• Promote innovation, digitalisation and Lean/continuous‑improvement practices.
• Lead a complex organisation of Site Managers, Operations Managers and Key Account Managers.
• Build a high‑performance, customer‑centric culture and drive talent development.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain or related field (MBA a plus).
• 15+ years of professional experience, including 8–10 years in senior leadership roles.
• Extensive background in supply chain or manufacturing environments.
• Proven multi‑site/plant operations and people‑management experience.
• Strong track record in P&L management and business development.
• Fluent in English.

Required skills

• Lean methodology
• Six Sigma
• World Class Manufacturing (WCM)

What we offer

• Competitive salary €110,000 – €130,000 per year.
• Company car.