Position Summary
The General Manager is responsible for the overall leadership and management of Hippocampus Logistics BV.
This role has full responsibility for the company's daily operations, business performance, financial results, customer satisfaction, compliance, and people management.
The General Manager reports directly to the Shareholders and Headquarters in China and serves as the key communication bridge between the Belgian operation and the Head Office.
The successful candidate must possess strong leadership skills, sound business judgment, excellent operational management capabilities, and the ability to work effectively in an international and multicultural environment.
Key Responsibilities
1. Business Management
- Lead and manage the overall business operations of Hippocampus Logistics BV.
- Develop and execute business strategies aligned with the company's objectives.
- Drive business growth and improve profitability.
- Prepare annual business plans, budgets, and operational forecasts.
- Monitor company performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
- Report directly to the shareholders and headquarters.
2. Warehouse & Logistics Management
- Oversee all warehouse operations.
- Optimize warehouse efficiency and productivity.
- Ensure accurate inventory management.
- Improve operational workflows and warehouse utilization.
- Monitor logistics KPIs.
- Ensure timely inbound and outbound operations.
3. Customs & Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure compliance with Belgian and European customs regulations.
- Supervise customs documentation and customs-related activities.
- Ensure compliance with labor laws, health & safety regulations, and company policies.
- Prepare for external audits and inspections.
4. Financial Management
- Take full responsibility for the company's Profit & Loss (P&L).
- Prepare and manage annual budgets.
- Monitor operational costs and improve cost efficiency.
- Review financial reports and business performance.
- Work closely with external accountants, payroll providers, and financial advisors.
5. Human Resources & Leadership
- Recruit, develop, and retain talented employees.
- Lead, coach, and motivate a multicultural team.
- Establish performance objectives and conduct performance evaluations.
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous learning.
- Ensure compliance with Belgian employment legislation.
6. Customer Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers.
- Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Resolve customer issues effectively.
- Support business development and customer acquisition.
7. Communication with Headquarters
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Belgian operation and the headquarters in China.
- Prepare regular operational, financial, and management reports.
- Communicate company performance and strategic initiatives.
- Coordinate projects between Belgium and China.
- Support the implementation of group policies and strategic decisions.
8. Health, Safety & Quality
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Promote a safe and efficient working environment.
- Improve operational quality standards.
- Lead continuous improvement projects.
Required QualificationsEducation
Bachelor's degree or above in:
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- Business Administration
- Engineering
- Operations Management
- or a related discipline.
Experience
- Minimum 8 years of experience in logistics, warehousing, or supply chain management.
- Minimum 5 years in a senior management or leadership position.
- Experience managing warehouse operations in Belgium or Europe.
- Experience in customs operations is highly preferred.
- Experience managing multicultural teams.
- Experience with P&L responsibility is preferred.
Professional Skills
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent business and commercial awareness.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
- Experience with ERP systems.
- Good understanding of Belgian employment legislation.
- Knowledge of customs and logistics regulations.
- Strong organizational and planning skills.
- Ability to work independently and make sound business decisions.
Language Requirements
- Fluent Mandarin Chinese (Mandatory)
- Fluent English (Mandatory)
- Professional working proficiency in Dutch ( Preferred)
Pay: €4.500,00 - €7.348,48 per month
Benefits:
- Company car
- Food allowance
- Hospitalization insurance
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Travel reimbursement
Work Location: In person
