C.H. Robinson is currently seeking a Senior Director Operations – EMEIA, to be based in Aalsmeer, the Netherlands, or Hamburg, Germany. 

 

As Senior Director Operations – EMEIA, you will play a pivotal role in scaling, transforming, and leading operations across Europe, Middle East, India and Africa. Reporting to the Global Vice President Operations, this position is a key driver of operational excellence, network performance, and regional alignment, translating global strategy into consistent, high‑impact execution across multiple countries. 

 

This role is primarily operational in nature, with a strong transformation mandate. The Senior Director will partner closely with senior stakeholders to modernize operating models, drive efficiency, and deliver a best‑in‑class customer experience across EMEIA. 

Responsibilities:

Operational Excellence and Business Performance: 

Lead and scale EMEIA operations, ensuring consistent execution of the global operating model across multiple countries and markets 

Drive operational transformation initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, standardization, and continuous improvement 

Partner closely with leadership to align operational capabilities with company strategy 

Translate global objectives into clear regional priorities, execution plans, and measurable outcomes 

Establish, deploy, and monitor key operational KPIs across EMEIA, ensuring accountability and sustained performance 

Champion data‑driven decision‑making by leveraging analytics, automation, and technology to improve operational outcomes 

Lead complex, cross‑functional initiatives, ensuring effective change management, communication, and stakeholder alignment 

Strengthen collaboration between regional and global operations teams, reinforcing a "one EMEIA" mindset while aligning with global standards 

Oversee operational readiness to support growth, transformation initiatives, and ongoing business change

Act as a senior operations partner to global leadership, providing insight, recommendations, and progress updates on regional performance and transformation effort

 

Leadership & Talent Management: 

Lead and develop multi‑regional operational teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement 

Strengthen leadership capabilities across the region through coaching, performance management, and targeted development 

Identify skill gaps and succession needs, partnering with HR and functional leaders to build sustainable talent pipelines 

Promote an inclusive, high‑performance culture aligned with company values and Robinson Behaviors 

Encourage knowledge sharing and best‑practice adoption across countries and teams 

Required Qualifications:

Minimum 10 years of leadership experience in operations within a complex, multi‑country environment, within logistics 

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university 

Proven track record of leading large‑scale operational transformation and change initiatives 

Strong operational mindset with the ability to translate strategy into execution 

Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting to and influencing senior leadership 

Willingness and ability to travel across EMEIA as required 

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working within global operating models 

Experience managing and influencing senior stakeholders across regions and functions

Strong analytical orientation, with demonstrated experience leveraging data, insights, and technology to drive operational improvement 

Demonstrated ability to lead through ambiguity and drive alignment across diverse teams and cultures 

What We Offer 

The opportunity to operate at senior level within a truly global organization, collaborating with leaders across regions and functions

The scope to lead and develop multi regional teams, shaping operational excellence across EMEIA

A high visibility role with direct exposure to global leadership, influencing strategic decisions and transformation initiatives

A dynamic environment where your expertise will directly contribute to shaping the future operating model of C.H. Robinson 

Questioning if you meet the mark? Studies have shown that some individuals may be less likely to apply unless they match the job description exactly. Here at C.H. Robinson, we’re building an inclusive workplace where all employees feel they belong. If this position excites you, we welcome you to apply whether you check all the preferred qualifications or just a few. You may just be our next great fit!