the client is seeking a hands-on CEO with end-to-end responsibility and an international market orientation in a specialized agro-industrial environment. The organization is characterized by seasonal activity and high volumes, and the CEO will be responsible for maintaining business continuity while guiding the company through a next phase of professionalization without losing the strengths of the existing way of working. Key priorities include professionalizing processes, structures, and day-to-day operations; strengthening the management team through coaching, clarity, and ownership; and creating support for change in a context where long-standing practices may slow down renewal.
The CEO will also safeguard profitability in a business model with high volumes and controlled margins, with a focus on cost control, efficiency, and operational discipline. Responsibilities include consolidating current revenues and margins and optimizing where needed; ensuring clear agreements and uniform working methods; and providing effective operational support. The role includes actively monitoring international market dynamics, including competitive behavior, international trade show presence, and further developing relationships with distributors and agents.
In addition, the CEO serves as a people manager with operational leadership and a strong commercial mindset. The role requires bringing calm, discipline, and clarity while remaining closely connected to the shop floor and delivering change through concrete actions, follow-up, and consistent execution. The CEO is expected to travel internationally for trade fairs and customer contact and will ideally bring experience in production environments related to food, agro, or horti business, with familiarity with high-volume, controlled-margin operations and a strong emphasis on quality, planning, and operational discipline; knowledge of Dutch and English is expected, with German and French as a plus. Local presence is essential, and the client will consider both candidates in employment and candidates working independently.