Head of Logistics Department

About the Company

We are representing a leading international chemical manufacturing company with over 2,000 employees globally and a significant production footprint in the Netherlands. The business is a key supplier of chemical intermediates used across a wide range of industrial applications, serving customers throughout Europe, North America, and Asia.

As part of its ongoing supply chain investment and global growth, the company is seeking an experienced Warehousing & Distribution Manager to lead and optimize logistics operations, with full accountability for inbound and outbound flows, warehouse performance, and transport execution.

About the Role

Based at the company’s Rotterdam site, this role is responsible for overseeing all warehousing and logistics operations, including the management of raw material receipts, internal inventory handling, and outbound distribution to domestic and international customers.

You will lead a team of 8 direct reports, including warehouse supervisors, logistics coordinators, and distribution planners, and work closely with cross-functional teams across supply chain, manufacturing, procurement, and customer service.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations for inbound raw material logistics and outbound product distribution across multiple transport modes (road, rail, sea, barge).
• Oversee warehouse operations, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient handling of chemical intermediates in accordance with regulatory standards.
• Manage and develop a high-performing team of 8 logistics and warehousing professionals, setting clear goals and supporting professional growth.
• Monitor and optimize inventory flow, storage utilization, and warehouse capacity planning.
• Ensure on-time delivery performance and seamless coordination with 3PLs, freight forwarders, and internal stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement in logistics cost, service levels, and operational efficiency through KPIs and process optimization.
• Maintain full compliance with local and international transport, safety, and environmental regulations, including ADR, REACH, and customs requirements.
• Support global supply chain initiatives related to network design, sustainability, and digital tools.
• Collaborate with the wider supply chain and production teams to ensure alignment between material flows and manufacturing schedules.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering, or related discipline.
• 8+ years of experience in warehousing, distribution, or logistics within the chemical or industrial manufacturing sector.
• Proven leadership experience managing warehouse or logistics teams in a regulated environment.
• Strong understanding of transport regulations, hazardous material handling, and international shipping requirements.
• Familiarity with ERP and WMS systems (SAP preferred) and logistics performance metrics.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and cross-functional coordination skills.
• Strong focus on safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.