Sales Director - Knitwear

Director of Sales & Business Development (Knitwear)

Location:

Can be based in the Netherlands, Germany, or France

Working:  Hybrid (2-3 days per week in your Regional office)

Position Type:  Permanent

dSb are exclusively partnering with a Global Sourcing business to recruit a Key role within their Knitwear business. As this role is focussed on EU markets and the company has many EU Regional offices, the location is flexible.

Job Purpose
The Director of Sales & Business Development is a key leadership role responsible for driving the strategic direction and growth initiatives of the business across the UK and European markets. This individual will work closely with cross-functional teams to identify new business opportunities, develop strategic partnerships, and expand revenue streams.

The successful candidate will bring extensive experience within the  knitwear  industry, with a strong understanding of product development, sourcing, manufacturing, supply chains, and customer requirements. They will possess an established network within the apparel and fashion sector and a proven track record of delivering commercial growth.

This is an exciting opportunity to work exclusively with a highly regarded international business, supporting its continued expansion and strengthening its market position across multiple territories.

Develop and execute the business development strategy to achieve corporate growth objectives across key markets

Identify and evaluate new business opportunities, partnerships, and revenue streams to expand the company's market presence

Build and maintain strategic relationships with retailers, brands, sourcing organisations, and key industry stakeholders

Lead negotiations with prospective customers and partners to secure long-term commercial agreement

Collaborate with sales, merchandising, product development, and operational teams to ensure alignment on business objectives and customer requirements

Analyse market trends, customer feedback, and competitive activity to support business planning and growth initiatives

Drive customer acquisition and account development activities within the knitwear and apparel sectors

Monitor and report on performance metrics related to business development and revenue growth objectives

Represent the organisation at industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to enhance brand visibility and strengthen market relationships

Manage and mentor commercial team members, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement

Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Fashion, Textiles, or a related field; MBA or advanced qualification preferred

10+ years of experience in business development, sales, or commercial leadership roles within the knitwear, apparel, or textile industry within

Proven track record of driving revenue growth and securing new business opportunities within international markets

Strong understanding of the UK and European apparel markets and experience developing go-to-market strategies

Extensive knowledge of knitwear manufacturing, sourcing, product development, and supply chain operations

Established network of contacts across retailers, brands, buying offices, and sourcing organisations

Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills

Ability to think strategically and execute effectively in a fast-paced international environment

Demonstrated leadership experience with the ability to develop and manage high-performing teams

Proficient in analysing market trends and commercial data to support strategic decision-making

Preferred

Experience building partner and channel development programmes

Experience working across multiple international markets

Fluency in one or more European languages would be advantageous

Additional expertise within apparel, fashion, or textile product categories

Strategic thinker with strong commercial and financial acumen

Excellent communicator and presenter, comfortable engaging with senior leadership and executive stakeholders

Strong negotiation and relationship management capabilities

Data-driven approach to forecasting, planning, and business development

Collaborative leadership style with a focus on accountability, performance, and talent development

We can only consider candidates with a strong knitwear background.

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