General Manager (Consumer Goods Distribution)

On behalf of our client, a well-established consumer goods distributor, part of a leading international group, we are seeking an experienced General Manager to lead and further develop its operations in Bulgaria.

About the role

As a GM Bulgaria, you will hold full P&L responsibility for the Bulgarian business and report to the Cluster Management team. You will set the local strategy, grow sales and profitability, and lead a team of around 25 people across sales, office administration and HR, warehouse, transport.

Key responsibilities

• Define and deliver the country business plan, budget and commercial targets
• Own the P&L: revenue, gross margin, operating costs, working capital and cash flow
• Grow the customer base with local manufacturers and strengthen key accounts
• Build and manage relationships with international suppliers and principals; secure new product lines
• Lead, coach and develop the local team of ~25 people; build a performance-driven, customer-focused culture
• Oversee supply chain, inventory, warehousing and pricing to keep service levels high and costs under control
• Ensure compliance with quality, food-safety, regulatory and group governance standards
• Monitor the market and competitors; identify new segments, products and growth opportunities
• Report regularly to group management on performance, forecasts and risks

Requirements

Candidate profile

Must have

• 8+ years of commercial experience in B2B distribution or manufacturing, with at least 3–5 years in a General Manager, Country Manager or Commercial Director role
• Proven P&L ownership and a track record of profitable growth
• Experience in ingredients, chemicals, food & beverage, nutrition or a related industrial sector
• Strong network among manufacturers in Bulgaria
• Experience working with international suppliers and within a multinational or group structure
• Solid financial acumen: budgeting, margin management, working capital
• People leader who builds trust, develops talent and drives accountability
• Fluent English (mandatory – working language with the group) and Bulgarian
• University degree in business, economics, engineering, food science, chemistry or similar

Nice to have

• Technical background that supports product and application discussions with customers
• MBA or further management education
• Regional experience in South-East Europe

Benefits

What we offer

• Gross annual salary of EUR 65,000 – 75,000, based on experience
• Annual bonus linked to KPI achievement
• Easter and Christmas bonuses
• Company car
• Private medical insurance
• A senior leadership role with real autonomy and direct impact on results
• The backing of an international group with a strong supplier portfolio