Key Account Manager – Netherlands
For a quarter of a century, our client has been bringing joy, wonder, and playful fun to people of all ages around the world. Known for their original, high-quality, and wonderfully soft toys, they have become a globally beloved brand. Each creation is known for its whimsical expressions and exceptional attention to detail, making it a favorite among collectors and children alike. Now, they’re looking to expand their reach further in the Dutch market with the addition of a Key Account Manager.
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced Key Account Manager to support the growth and development of our client’s key accounts in the Netherlands. Reporting directly to the Country Manager DACH + NL, you will be responsible for maximizing commercial opportunities within the existing client base and identifying new strategic distribution partners.
This position plays a pivotal role in executing our client’s commercial strategy, ensuring sustainable growth, and strengthening relationships within the Dutch market. You will work closely with the Country Manager to achieve these objectives.
Location:
This role is based in Amsterdan ( your home is your office) , with an initial training period at the company’s London headquarters.
Regular travel within the Netherlands is required, as well as occasional trips to London for internal meetings and trade shows.
Key Responsibilities:
- Account Ownership: Fully manage the assigned key accounts ( large department stores for example), acting as the main point of contact for all commercial, contractual, and operational matters.
- Strategic Planning: Design and implement a tailored annual strategy for each account, aligned with national business objectives.
- Commercial Engagement: Respond to incoming inquiries, manage opportunities proactively, and handle client requests in an efficient manner.
- Growth Activation: Identify and activate growth opportunities, monitor account performance, and adapt actions to optimize results.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with marketing, logistics, finance (particularly credit control), and customer service teams to ensure seamless account management.
- Client Visits and Trade Shows: Conduct store visits, lead product range reviews, attend trade shows, and follow up on leads generated at events.
- Market Insights: Analyze industry trends, anticipate client needs, and recommend relevant product assortments.
- Operational Excellence: Track orders, verify customer data, handle account-related administrative tasks, and provide regular reporting to management.
- Business Development: Assist the European Sales Manager and Country Manager with broader business development initiatives as needed.
What You’ll Bring:
- Experience: Previous experience as a Key Account Manager, with a proven track record of managing a portfolio of accounts and successfully growing a territory in a strategic, commercial manner.
- Attention to Detail: High accuracy, reliability, and attention to detail, particularly in managing accounts and administrative tasks.
- Relationship Management: A personable and positive approach to maximizing sales through strong professional relationships, while understanding business limitations.
- Brand Alignment: Ability to align with the brand’s tone and communication style, ensuring that all interactions reflect the client’s values.
- Decision-Making: Confidence in making commercial decisions, with the ability to take direction from senior team members when needed.
- Proficiency: Strong proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
- Communication: Clear, concise communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with internal teams and clients.
- Languages: Fluency in Dutch and English (written and spoken) is essential.
- Innovation and Passion: A creative and passionate approach, with the ability to build and nurture strong relationships with key retailers.
- Results-Driven: High energy and a results-oriented mindset, leading by example in a hands-on manner.
- Adaptability: Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, data-driven environment and adapt to dynamic situations.
- Collaboration: A collaborative and adaptable team player who thrives in a culture of transparency, accountability, and openness.
- Feedback-Oriented: Respectful in challenging assumptions and open to giving and receiving feedback.
- Learning Agility: An agile learner, capable of adapting to new and evolving situations.
If you’re ready to hit the ground running and contribute to the continued success of a globally recognized, playful, and innovative brand, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today to join an extraordinary team!
