Our client is a respected global manufacturer and distributor of premium commercial laundry equipment and solutions. With a diverse product portfolio serving on-premise laundry facilities, coin-operated laundromats and contract laundry operations, they operate across multiple continents and serve thousands of customers in the hospitality, healthcare, and facility management sectors. The French operation is a key market within their EMEA region. As Country Manager, you will lead a high-performing team, drive profitable growth across multiple distribution channels, and serve as the strategic voice of the French market to regional leadership.
Lead sales strategy and execution across all distribution channels (direct and resale) to maximise revenue and market share in France
Manage full accountability for the French entity, including budget development
Monthly performance tracking and variance analysis
Build and develop a high-performing sales and commercial team; conduct performance
Appraisals and implement staffing changes based on market needs
Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with key distributors and resale partners
Position the client brands to maximise mutual growth
Deliver competitive intelligence to regional leadership, including market trends
Competitor activity, pricing strategies and product opportunities
Manage inventory planning and warehouse operations to balance growth objectives
with cost control
Collaborate with central teams (product, marketing, operations) to ensure France
Specific strategies are informed by global insights
Represent the company at industry trade shows, customer events and key accounts
• 5+ years of direct sales leadership and/or commercial management experience in EMEA
• Proven track record of building and managing high-performing sales teams and achieving revenue targets
• Bachelor degree in Business, Marketing, Commerce or related discipline
• Fluent in English and French (speak, read, write)
• Strong business acumen; ability to understand budgeting and financial KPIs
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to influence and motivate across organisational boundaries
Experience in commercial laundry, facility services, hospitality or related B2B equipment sectors
Familiarity with distributor management and multi-channel sales models
Technical or mechanical aptitude related to commercial equipment or machinery
Experience managing inventories and supply chain operations
Lead a significant operation within a respected global organisation
Full accountability and strategic decision-making authority
Opportunity to build and develop a high-performing team
Direct reporting line to VP Sales EU with visibility to executive leadership
Competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience

Witan Search has refined its search process to create a new formula for successful recruitment in the chemical, personal care and manufacturing sectors. With extensive industry-specific experience, our team understands our clients' challenges and delivers talent that meets both technical and strategic needs. Operating across the EMEA region, we are experts in navigating the complexities of hiring top-tier professionals where expertise and skill are vital for success.
Our Specialist areas are Chemicals, Specialty Chemicals, Manufacturing, Personal Care, Automotive Lubricants, Adhesives, Sealants, Elastomers, Coatings, Additives, Food & Beverage Industry, Chemical Manufacturing, Metalworking & Fabrication, Metalworking Fluids, and Plastics.