Area Manager (Benelux & Germany)

Iittala is dedicated to inspiring better living. What began as a glass factory in a small village in Finland back in 1881, has grown into an internationally known design brand that continues to define the progressive Nordic way of life.

Iittala · Royal Copenhagen · Georg Jensen · Moomin by Arabia

Working with our iconic brands across Benelux and Germany, you will play a key role in shaping the future performance and growth in this market. Ideal for someone with a passion for retail environments, an eye for design, and a results-driven mindset focused on improving store performance.

About the Role

As Area Manager, you are responsible for the overall performance and development of our stores within your region, including Flagship stores, Outlets, and Concession shop‑in‑shops. Your focus is people and performance. You lead, coach, and inspire Store Managers and in‑store teams to deliver strong results, consistent brand execution, and a great customer experience. You will work closely with the Retail Operations Manager, Key Account Manager, Retail Activation Specialist, and Store Managers across Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Collaboration, trust, and shared ambition are key to success in this role.

This is a field‑based leadership role with frequent travel across the region.

Key Responsibilities

Drive sales, profitability, and KPI performance across your store portfolio

Lead, coach, and develop Store Managers to build confident, high‑performing teams

Be highly visible in stores, leading through presence, feedback, and hands‑on support

Translate commercial goals into clear actions and follow up with structure and energy

Ensure strong and consistent brand execution across all store formats

Work closely with the retail team to align on priorities, initiatives, and best practices

Collaborate with the Retail Activation Specialist on launches, visuals, and in‑store execution

Partner with the Key Account Manager to identify performance and growth opportunities

Identify commercial opportunities and act quickly to improve results

Create a positive, winning culture where people feel engaged, supported, and challenged

Ensure compliance with HR, operational, and brand standards

Follow up on budgets, forecasts, staffing, and store productivity

What You Bring

Solid experience in retail leadership as an Area Manager or similar roles

A strong commercial mindset with a genuine hunger for results and continuous improvement

Proven ability to lead leaders and develop high‑performing retail teams

Excellent people skills – motivating, supportive, and confident in your leadership style

Strong collaboration skills and a true team player across functions and countries

Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands‑on execution

A structured and data‑driven approach to performance follow‑up

Comfort working in a fast‑moving, international retail environment

Flexibility and willingness to travel frequently

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Fluent in English

Dutch, German & French language skills are an advantage

Personal Characteristics

Highly positive, energetic, and solution‑oriented

Motivated by results and eager to succeed

A strong leadership presence with a natural ability to inspire others

People‑focused, approachable, and respectful

Resilient and adaptable in a dynamic retail landscape

Collaborative with strong communication skills

Success Measures

Achievement of sales, profit, and KPI targets

High employee retention and development within your area

Consistent brand and operational excellence

Strong collaboration and alignment within the retail team

For Iittala, life is about progress: seeking ways to inspire, innovate and take a stand for what matters. Come make progress with us.: fiskarsgroup.com: iittala.com