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