Managing Director Belgium — Steel Distribution

Take full ownership of a turnaround. Restore performance. Shape market leadership in a specialised sector.

JOlivier & Partners is supporting an industrial group active in steel distribution in the appointment of the Managing Director of its Belgian entity, based in Liège.

The Organisation & Context

The Belgian business operates in a specialised, relationship-driven market within the steel value chain. With the entity currently below its financial potential, the Group is looking for a leader with full P&L responsibility to drive a commercially led turnaround and restore profitability, while remaining aligned with Group strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of the Belgian P&L and design and execute a comprehensive turnaround plan.
• Drive commercial excellence and strengthen key accounts.
• Reposition the business in the Belgian market, identifying growth opportunities and a differentiated value proposition.
• Build, develop and motivate a high-performing leadership team with a culture of accountability and performance.
• Strengthen relationships with key customers, suppliers and stakeholders across the steel value chain.
• Align execution with Group strategy while adapting to local market dynamics.
• Champion health, safety, compliance and operational excellence.

Candidate Profile

• Senior leadership experience at Managing Director or General Manager level within steel distribution (essential).
• A proven turnaround record, including taking a loss-making business back to profitability.
• A strong commercial background in B2B industrial sales.
• Extensive P&L management experience, including cost restructuring and margin improvement.
• Fluent French or Dutch, together with English.
• A resilient, hands-on and results-oriented leadership style.

The Leadership Challenge

A turnaround of this kind calls for two capabilities at once: the clarity to set a credible direction quickly, and the presence on the ground to deliver it with customers, teams and suppliers. The conversation with candidates will focus on how they have diagnosed under-performance, made difficult choices and rebuilt commercial momentum.

What Is on Offer

An attractive executive package aligned with the seniority and impact of the role, and full ownership of a business at a decisive moment.

Confidential Conversation

If your experience matches this mandate, apply through this page or contact João Oliveira for an initial confidential conversation about your background and objectives.