Welcome to artimelt AG
artimelt AG is an independent Swiss company and a global leader in hot melt adhesives. We are dedicated to delivering products and services of the highest quality, focusing on customer-specific solutions for both medical and industrial applications. Our reputation for innovation and reliability has made us a trusted name in the industry. At artimelt, we foster an appreciative working environment and a strong sense of community in our daily operations.
Job Opportunity: Head of International Business (m/f/d), 80-100%
This is a senior commercial role with integrated responsibility for the United States market and the strategic development of selected English-speaking European regions, including the UK, Ireland, Nordics, and BeNeLux. This position requires a unique blend of US market expertise, a technical background in adhesive technologies, and established industry relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- United States Commercial Ownership
- Full commercial responsibility for the US market, including revenue, margins, pricing strategy, and key account development.
- Be the primary point of contact for all US-related commercial matters and customer escalations.
- Develop and execute pricing and margin strategies in alignment with company targets.
- Strategic management of customer relationships in a highly competitive and relationship-driven market.
- Regular on-site presence in the US (approximately quarterly) for key customer meetings, toll manufacturing coordination, and industry events.
- US Toll Manufacturing Interface
- Serve as the commercial and technical interface to the US toll manufacturing partner.
- Coordinate scale-ups, process alignment, and customer approvals in collaboration with internal R&D and customer service.
- Ongoing commercial steering of the tolling setup to support local manufacturing for sustainable US market growth.
- Manage risks, deviations, and escalations related to outsourced production.
- Europe – Market & Business Development
- Strategic development of selected English-speaking European regions (UK, Ireland, Nordics, BeNeLux).
- Lead market entry activities, lead generation, and initial key account development in underdeveloped regions.
- Establish long-term customer structures and transition to sustainable account management.
- Regular on-site presence in the relevant regions.
- Work closely with R&D to translate customer requirements into customized adhesive solutions.
Required Qualifications & Background
- Technical or chemical education with a strong commercial orientation.
- Extensive experience in the adhesive industry, particularly in pressure-sensitive adhesives, tapes, and label applications.
- More than 15 years of professional experience in senior technical, marketing, and commercial roles.
- In-depth knowledge of the US adhesive market, including customer structures, pricing levels, and competitive technologies.
- Specialized Expertise (Non-Substitutable)
- Deep, long-standing personal network within the US adhesive industry.
- First-hand competitive market knowledge gained through long-term senior roles at a major global adhesive manufacturer.
- Hands-on experience with US toll manufacturing setups, including scale-ups and customer approvals.
- Able to combine US commercial leadership with European business development in a single integrated role.
- Languages & Communication
- Native or near-native English proficiency (business and negotiation level).
- Confident operation across US and European business cultures.
- Basic German language skills are considered advantageous but not a prerequisite.
What to Expect
- This position is based in Switzerland, which serves as the company’s operational and organizational hub.
- Enjoy a dynamic, open culture in a successful family business with a friendly team.
- Benefit from good employment conditions and participation in the company's success.
- Option for remote work.
Does this opportunity intrigue you, and do you wish to contribute actively to the continued success of artimelt?
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Corporate Video
Join artimelt, an independent Swiss company and one of the world's leading specialists in hot melt adhesives.
Contact Information
Melanie Ott
CEO
melanie.ott@artimelt.com
Cornelia Fuhrer
Human Resources
cornelia.fuhrer@artimelt.com
artimelt AG, Wassermatte 1, 6210 Sursee, Switzerland
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