Sales Manager - DACH

The Sales Manager reports to the Brand Manager Europe and will translate Gregory’s European strategy into strong market execution, build high-quality customer relationships, and improve sell-in, sell-through, and brand presentation with wholesale and omnichannel customers.
The Sales Manager will work closely with local marketing and operations managers as well as the Managing Director of Samsonite Germany (dotted line).

• Sales & Sell Through:
  • Own the sales plan, budget and commercial performance for the assigned markets, delivering agreed revenue, margin and distribution targets
  • Lead, coach and hold accountable the sales agents in Germany as well as agents in both Italy and Austria, setting clear priorities, targets and ways of working.
  • Manage the distributor relationship in Switzerland, including seasonal sell in, forecasting, commercial planning and brand execution.
  • Develop and maintain senior relationships with key customers across outdoor, sporting goods, lifestyle and traditional luggage.
  • Working with agents and customers, in partnership with the wider European team to improve sell through via assortment planning, replenishment, staff training and brand activation.

  • Directly manage house accounts for Gregory and possibly additional Group Brands.

• Stock and Forecasting:
  • Working with agency and distribution partners, maintain accurate timely sales forecasts per brand, per region and per season.
  • Attend monthly demand planning meetings to share regional insight on future stock requirements, managing immediate need against product lifecycle.
  • Coordinate closely with internal and external partners, acting as the bridge between brand and retailer to streamline communication and further the goals of the business.

  • Drive initiatives to enhance overall category performance and commercial success.

• Market Analysis:
  • Analyze market trends and consumer preferences to stay informed about the competitive landscape.
  • Identify new business opportunities that drive innovation and enhance commercial success.

  • Work with both local and international Gregory leadership on new product development highlighting European needs.

• Brand Build & Marketing:

  • Anticipate future trends and recommend key investments and brand growth initiatives.

  • Work together with local agents and distributors on optimal and effective marketing usage in each country.

  • Look to the long term success of the brand through segmentation, effective range building and strategy.

  • Attend internal and external sales meetings across Europe, including trade shows.

• Reporting & Financial:

  • Ensure key stakeholders (e.g. Brand Manager, General Manager Samsonite Germany) are informed on a regular basis on financials, opportunities for growth and expansion, competitive landscape developments, key investments and the strategic direction required achieve short and long-term growth objectives.

• Possess a university degree, preferably in marketing/business/textile/sport
• Demonstrate at least 6 years of experience in sales management or category management in a consumer goods environment, ideally from sports/outdoor industry
• Have a high level of product expertise in outdoor and ideally lifestyle products
• Professional competence in both German and English.
• Possess a strong commercial drive and awareness.
• Be an expert in omnichannel retail
• Have a strong affinity for outdoor, lifestyle and trends.
• Demonstrate the ability to handle multiple projects and adapt to changing priorities.
• Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Be pro-active, flexible, and organized.
• Be driven with a strong desire to succeed, with a can-do attitude.
• Be self-starter; flexible, responsive, determined with an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Show the ability to perform well under pressure in a deadline-driven environment and to work independently and as part of an international team.
• Demonstrate the ability to adapt to a multicultural and changing environment.
• Be available for travel across the region and also to Samsonite HQ in Belgium.
• Act as an ambassador of the brand(s).