- Location
- Aalsmeer, Netherlands · Hamburg Germany
- Workplace
- Onsite
- Type
- Full-time
- Department
- Operations
- Seniority
- Senior
- Experience
- 10+ years
- Source
- Workday
Description
C.H. Robinson is currently seeking a Senior Director Operations – EMEIA, to be based in Aalsmeer, the Netherlands, or Hamburg, Germany.
As Senior Director Operations – EMEIA, you will play a pivotal role in scaling, transforming, and leading operations across Europe, Middle East, India and Africa. Reporting to the Global Vice President Operations, this position is a key driver of operational excellence, network performance, and regional alignment, translating global strategy into consistent, high‑impact execution across multiple countries.
This role is primarily operational in nature, with a strong transformation mandate. The Senior Director will partner closely with senior stakeholders to modernize operating models, drive efficiency, and deliver a best‑in‑class customer experience across EMEIA.
Responsibilities:
Operational Excellence and Business Performance:
Lead and scale EMEIA operations, ensuring consistent execution of the global operating model across multiple countries and markets
Drive operational transformation initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, standardization, and continuous improvement
Partner closely with leadership to align operational capabilities with company strategy
Translate global objectives into clear regional priorities, execution plans, and measurable outcomes
Establish, deploy, and monitor key operational KPIs across EMEIA, ensuring accountability and sustained performance
Champion data‑driven decision‑making by leveraging analytics, automation, and technology to improve operational outcomes
Lead complex, cross‑functional initiatives, ensuring effective change management, communication, and stakeholder alignment
Strengthen collaboration between regional and global operations teams, reinforcing a "one EMEIA" mindset while aligning with global standards
Oversee operational readiness to support growth, transformation initiatives, and ongoing business change
Act as a senior operations partner to global leadership, providing insight, recommendations, and progress updates on regional performance and transformation effort
Leadership & Talent Management:
Lead and develop multi‑regional operational teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Strengthen leadership capabilities across the region through coaching, performance management, and targeted development
Identify skill gaps and succession needs, partnering with HR and functional leaders to build sustainable talent pipelines
Promote an inclusive, high‑performance culture aligned with company values and Robinson Behaviors
Encourage knowledge sharing and best‑practice adoption across countries and teams
Required Qualifications:
Minimum 10 years of leadership experience in operations within a complex, multi‑country environment, within logistics
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Proven track record of leading large‑scale operational transformation and change initiatives
Strong operational mindset with the ability to translate strategy into execution
Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting to and influencing senior leadership
Willingness and ability to travel across EMEIA as required
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working within global operating models
Experience managing and influencing senior stakeholders across regions and functions
Strong analytical orientation, with demonstrated experience leveraging data, insights, and technology to drive operational improvement
Demonstrated ability to lead through ambiguity and drive alignment across diverse teams and cultures
What We Offer
The opportunity to operate at senior level within a truly global organization, collaborating with leaders across regions and functions
The scope to lead and develop multi regional teams, shaping operational excellence across EMEIA
A high visibility role with direct exposure to global leadership, influencing strategic decisions and transformation initiatives
A dynamic environment where your expertise will directly contribute to shaping the future operating model of C.H. Robinson
Questioning if you meet the mark? Studies have shown that some individuals may be less likely to apply unless they match the job description exactly. Here at C.H. Robinson, we’re building an inclusive workplace where all employees feel they belong. If this position excites you, we welcome you to apply whether you check all the preferred qualifications or just a few. You may just be our next great fit!
