Head of Business Development - Europe

Company Description

Culina is the UK’s leading independent specialist supply chain partner, trusted by some of the nation’s best recognised food, fast-moving consumer goods (FMGC) and retail brands. We're proud to employ over 22,000 colleagues across 100+ locations nationwide, supported by a fleet of more than 5,500 trucks and trailers delivering every day.

We currently have an exciting opportunity in our International division - making cross-border logistics simple, seamless and reliable. Combining international expertise, strong transport networks and end-to-end visibility, our teams deliver flexible, efficient and cost-effective solutions that keep supply chains moving and support business growth.

Job Description

As Head of Business Development – Europe, you’ll lead the commercial strategy for our international transport and logistics operations, with the ambition of doubling revenue and business volume within three years.

Reporting to the Managing Director – Europe, you’ll secure new business, build strategic customer partnerships and expand our European network. You’ll also support the integration of Eddie Stobart Europe and IRF, bringing together their strengths to develop compelling customer solutions and accelerate the move beyond traditional road haulage into network-based and intermodal logistics.

Key aspects of the role will include: 

• Develop and deliver the European growth strategy, opening new markets, customer segments and geographic territories.
• Build a high-value sales pipeline and strategic account plans, leading negotiations for major contracts, partnerships and commercial agreements.
• Expand the European logistics network through partners, agents, hubs and depots, evaluating acquisition and joint venture opportunities and developing scalable, profitable operating models.
• Develop intermodal solutions across rail, short-sea, inland waterways and road, building relationships with operators, ports and terminals to support modal shift and carbon reduction.
• Support business integration, identifying cross-selling opportunities, commercial synergies and operational efficiencies while encouraging collaboration across teams.
• Create compelling customer propositions and go-to-market strategies, working with operations, transport, procurement and finance to ensure profitable delivery.
• Deliver agreed revenue, margin and growth targets, develop annual budgets and business cases, and provide performance updates to the Managing Director – Europe.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity and emerging technologies, representing the business with customers and at industry events across Europe.

Qualifications

You’ll bring a strong blend of strategic vision, commercial expertise and hands-on business development experience, backed by a track record of growing European transport and logistics operations.

• 10–15 years’ senior leadership experience within transport, logistics, supply chain or a related industry.
• Demonstrable success delivering significant revenue, profit and organic business growth across European markets.
• Extensive knowledge of European road freight, rail freight, intermodal and multimodal supply chain solutions.
• A proven track record of developing logistics networks, international operations and strategic customer partnerships across Europe.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen, including pricing strategy, profitability management, contract negotiation and business case development.
• Experience securing, managing and growing major customer relationships and commercial alliances.
• Proven leadership of large-scale transformation, integration, acquisition or organisational change programmes.
• Strong strategic planning, business development and sales leadership skills, with a focus on sustainable long-term growth.
• The ability to influence senior stakeholders across countries, functions and partner organisations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and data-driven decision-making skills, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Additional Information

If you're looking for a role where you can make an impact, develop your career, and be part of a team that works as one to achieve great results, we'd love to hear from you. 

• Company Bonus -we achieve more when we work together, that’s why we celebrate our shared success through our bonus scheme. 
• Private Medical Cover - enjoy peace of mind with access to Bupa's healthcare services. 
• Company car or car Allowance - providing additional support and flexibility to help you stay mobile and connected. 
• Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme - our salary sacrifice scheme offers a cost-effective way to drive an electric vehicle, with payments taken directly from your salary. Eligibility and salary thresholds apply. 
• Everyday Discounts – our benefits platform gives you access to discounts from over 50 leading retailers, helping your money go further every day. 
• Reward & Recognition – we love celebrating great work, we recognise those who go above and beyond. 
• Eye Care Vouchers – free eye tests and discounts on prescription glasses. 
• Wellbeing Support – your wellbeing matters to us. Through our Employee Assistance Programme, you'll have 24/7 access to confidential counselling and legal support, whenever you need it.