ICS General Manager EMEA

Nordson Industrial Coating Systems (ICS), a global leader in leader in industrial coating systems, is seeking a highly motivated and talented General Manager - EMEA to join our team. The role is ideally based in Geleen, the Netherlands, though we are open to exceptional candidates located in region of Erkrath, Germany.

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we are looking for candidates who share that same commitment. 

Summary of the role

As General Manager, for our ICS division in EMEA you are responsible for leading manufacturing operations and driving commercial and sales success across the entire EMEA. This role combines operational excellence with strategic commercial leadership to ensure profitable growth, customer satisfaction, and market share expansion. You will oversee regional manufacturing facilities, sales teams, and cross-functional initiatives to deliver high-quality products and services aligned with divisional goals.

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, where your ideas and contributions will be valued and respected.

Role and Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership
  • Lead and manage EMEA manufacturing operations, ensuring peak efficiency, safety, and quality standards.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using the NBS Next framework to optimize productivity, reduce costs, and improve margins.
  • Establish and monitor KPIs for operational performance, including on-time delivery, cost reduction, and quality metrics.
  • Oversee resource planning, staffing, training, and development for operations teams across multiple sites.
  • Implement lean manufacturing practices and ensure compliance with regulatory and company standards.
• Commercial & Sales Leadership
  • Develop and execute strategic sales plans to achieve revenue and growth targets across EMEA.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, distributors, and partners to enhance customer experience and loyalty.
  • Direct channel development, pricing strategies, and market expansion initiatives.
  • Collaborate with marketing and product management teams to launch new products and drive adoption in target markets.
  • Monitor competitive landscape and adjust strategies to maintain market leadership.
• Strategic & Financial Accountability
  • Deliver annual and strategic planning goals for both operations and commercial functions.
  • Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial performance for the region, ensuring profitability and sustainable growth.
  • Drive alignment between operational capabilities and commercial objectives to maximize business performance.
• Leadership & Culture
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Promote diversity, inclusion, and talent development through coaching, mentoring, and succession planning.
  • Inspire and motivate cross-functional teams to achieve excellence in customer satisfaction and operational performance.
  • Perform miscellaneous duties and projects as assigned and required.

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field; MBA or Master’s preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations and commercial roles, ideally in an industrial or technology-driven environment.
• Proven track record in managing P&L, driving operational efficiency, and achieving sales growth in a global or regional context.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and SAP systems.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional leadership and communication abilities.
• Commercial acumen with experience in market development and customer relationship management.
• Ability to thrive in a matrixed, global organization and manage complexity effectively.

Travel

• Estimated:  30–50% across EMEA and occasional global travel.

Benefits

We offer a flexible work schedule, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for growth and development.

About Nordson Industrial Coating Solutions

Manufacturers rely on Nordson Industrial Coating Solutions equipment for the precise application and curing of powder coatings, liquid paint, ambient temperature adhesives and sealants, and food and beverage container production. By joining our team today, you will help us bring innovative ideas to life. Nordson Industrial Coating Solutions is a global team that works to create industrial coating solutions that help our customers improve their manufacturing process, produce better products and become even more competitive. We offer a supportive culture in a growing and dynamic work environment. Whether you're just beginning your career or you're a seasoned professional, there's a place for you to belong at Nordson Industrial Coating Solutions. We offer hourly and salary positions in production, maintenance, customer service, quality, engineering, and more. We actively invest in our teams to help you build your skillsets and advance your career.

Our recruitment process is designed to identify the best qualified candidates for the role, and we are committed to ensuring a fair and equitable interview process. We are looking for candidates who have a passion for inclusion, diversity and equity, and the ability to contribute to a culture where all employees feel valued, respected, and included.

Interested? 

If you are interested in being a part of a team that is dedicated to providing Industrial Coating Systems and creating an inclusive and diverse workplace, please apply online with your CV.

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