Head Of Chemicals Benelux - Contract Logistics

Job Title

DP World's Chemicals operations in the Benelux are a key part of the Western Europe Contract Logistics business. This role combines operational leadership of a large logistics network with responsibility for major transformation programs. It requires balancing day-to-day delivery with long-term strategic change in a highly regulated sector.

About the Role

This position oversees six operational sites and the regional chemicals distribution network, covering 100,000 m² of warehousing, a fleet of 50 trucks, and around 150 FTE. The role carries full P&L responsibility and drives strategic and operational excellence to achieve growth, efficiency, client satisfaction, and innovation.

In this role you'll lead several strategic programs, including cultural integration from the former Imperial organization into DP World, digital transformation (new WMS and TMS), and product innovation in areas such as battery logistics. The role also includes developing and delivering the strategic business plan for Chemicals Logistics in Western Europe.

This position is central to shaping DP World's growth and reputation in the Chemicals sector in the Benelux.

Key Accountabilities

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Full P&L responsibility.
• Manage a multi-site logistics network for global and regional chemical clients.
• Drive operational excellence in warehousing, transport, and distribution.
• Ensure strong HSE, sustainability, and compliance performance.

Transformation & Change Management

• Lead the innovation agenda from solution design to implementation.
• Drive cultural transformation toward full DP World integration.
• Oversee development and launch of Container Freight Stations (CFS) in Antwerp and Rotterdam.
• Lead the WMS and TMS replacement program from design to rollout.

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as strategic partner and primary contact for key customers.
• Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, and HSE on customer-centric solutions.
• Represent DP World in senior discussions with customers, suppliers, and industry bodies.
• Build strong relationships with regulatory authorities and regional stakeholders.

People Leadership

• Lead and motivate up to 200 employees across multiple sites.
• Chair the Benelux Chemicals leadership team and represent management to the works council.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, collaboration, and innovation.
• Drive workforce planning, talent development, and succession.

Business Performance & Growth

• Partner with Sales on the Chemicals growth plan and new market opportunities.
• Deliver revenue and margin targets.
• Implement continuous improvements across logistics operations.
• Identify growth opportunities with existing and new customers.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and HSE standards.
• Guarantee adherence to Seveso, ADR, and other chemical safety regulations.
• Maintain strong operational controls and compliance frameworks.
• Ensure sites meet audit, certification, and regulatory requirements.

Key Requirements

Qualifications

• Master's degree in engineering, logistics, supply chain, or business administration.
• Knowledge of ADR/Seveso regulations strongly preferred.

Experience

• 15+ years of leadership experience in warehousing, supply chain, or transport operations, ideally in the Chemicals sector.
• Proven track record managing multi-site logistics operations with P&L ownership (€40m+ turnover, 100+ FTE).
• Experience leading large-scale change and IT transformation programs.

Skills

• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Analytical and commercially minded.
• Results-driven and customer-focused.
• Collaborative, culturally aware, and experienced in leading diverse teams.
• Fluent in English and Dutch; French is an advantage.