General Manager Italy

Job Description:

The General Manager will assume full responsibility for the development and performance of the Italian subsidiary, with a strong focus on commercial growth, business development and market expansion.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful candidate will act as the key representative of the company in the Italian market, translating the Group's strategy into a strong local commercial plan and identifying new opportunities for sustainable growth.

A key priority will be the development of new points of sale and commercial partnerships across the Pharmacy, Hospitality and Online channels, while strengthening existing relationships and increasing the company's presence and visibility in the Italian market.

Responsibilities:

- Define and execute the commercial strategy for the Italian market, aligned with the Group's overall objectives.
- Take full ownership of the P&L and commercial performance of the Italian subsidiary.
- Develop and implement a clear business development and sales plan, identifying new growth opportunities across Italy.
- Lead the opening of new points of sale, particularly within the Pharmacy and Hospitality channels.
- Develop and strengthen relationships with pharmacy groups, distributors, hotels, hospitality groups and other strategic partners.
- Drive the development of the online channel, identifying opportunities to accelerate e-commerce growth and digital sales.
-Manage and develop existing key accounts while continuously identifying new business opportunities.
-Build strong, long-term relationships with strategic customers and partners, acting as the company's senior commercial representative in Italy.
- Monitor market trends, competitors and consumer behaviour to identify new opportunities and anticipate market developments.
- Lead, motivate and develop the local commercial team, fostering a strong performance and customer-oriented culture.
- Establish and monitor commercial KPIs, budgets and forecasts, taking corrective actions where necessary.
- Work closely with the headquarters across Marketing, Product, Finance, Supply Chain and other relevant functions.
- Provide regular updates to the Ownership on business performance, market developments and strategic opportunities.
- Represent the company at relevant industry events, customer meetings and other strategic forums.

Requirements:

We are looking for a senior commercial leader with a proven track record in the Beauty, Cosmetics, Luxury or Premium Consumer Goods sectors.

The ideal candidate will combine strong strategic thinking with a highly hands-on and entrepreneurial approach, with a demonstrated ability to open new doors, develop distribution and generate sustainable commercial growth.

Required Experience
- Significant experience in a senior commercial / general management role within Beauty, Cosmetics, Luxury, Premium Consumer Goods or closely related sectors.
- Strong knowledge and established relationships within the Italian market.
- Proven experience developing business through Pharmacy, Hospitality and/or Online channels.
- Demonstrated track record in opening new points of sale, developing distribution networks and acquiring new accounts.
- Experience managing commercial teams and taking ownership of business targets and results.
- Previous experience in a subsidiary, country or local market leadership role would be highly valued.
- Experience working with a family-owned or entrepreneurial business environment would be a strong advantage.

Skills & Competencies
- Strong commercial and business development mindset.
- Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.
- Entrepreneurial, proactive and hands-on approach.
- Strong leadership and people-management capabilities.
- Strategic vision combined with a strong execution orientation.
- High level of autonomy and accountability.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills.
- Ability to operate effectively in an international environment and collaborate closely with the headquarters.

Languages
- Italian: Native / bilingual level.
- English: Advanced / fluent.
- Spanish would be considered an advantage.

Company Description:

Our client is a well-established family-owned company with an international presence in the Beauty & Cosmetics sector. The company combines a strong heritage and premium positioning with an ambitious international growth strategy.

As part of its continued expansion in Italy, the company is looking to appoint a General Manager to lead and develop its Italian commercial subsidiary, based in Milan.

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