Head of Export Sales (m/w/d)

About the Company

KNUTH Group operates globally in the machine tool industry and runs its own production and sales locations. The business is built on quality, innovation, and close customer relationships.

Role Overview

The company is looking for a Head of Export Sales (m/w/d) to take charge of international revenue growth with a strong operational focus. The core regions for this role are MENA and the EU. This is a hands-on commercial leadership position for someone who actively creates market access, develops partnerships, and drives growth rather than simply managing existing business.

Responsibilities

• Identify and win new distributors and channel partners independently, including negotiating and signing partner agreements across the EU and MENA regions.
• Own export revenue performance directly, manage pricing with autonomy, and lead international tenders and bids.
• Maintain strong market visibility through regular travel, on-site customer engagement, trade fair participation, and tender meetings.
• Lead and develop a 4 to 5 person export sales team with a clear growth mindset and measurable targets.
• Act as the link between export markets and internal teams such as product management and procurement, while also coordinating with the USA and South Africa regions.

Requirements

• Proven success in international B2B sales, preferably with products or solutions that require explanation and consultation.
• Hands-on experience handling international tenders and competitive bidding processes.
• Initial leadership experience and strong willingness to travel frequently.
• Practical experience in MENA markets, including an understanding of local business customs and trust-building practices.
• Business-fluent English is required; Arabic or French would be a strong advantage.
• High cultural awareness and the ability to adapt communication style to different markets.
• Comfortable using AI tools actively in daily sales and work processes.

Benefits

• Above-average compensation package, including company pension support, bike leasing, monthly vouchers, and childcare allowance.
• Permanent full-time employment with a family-owned business that has more than 100 years of history.
• Direct reporting line to management, short decision-making paths, and real scope to shape activities in the assigned markets.
• A modern, digitally minded environment where AI use in sales is openly encouraged.
• International working setting with global customers and partners, while remaining rooted in a medium-sized family business.

Additional Information

The employer is looking to fill the position as soon as possible. The workplace is in Ehndorf, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The role is based onsite. The team leadership scope covers 4 to 5 employees. The employment is permanent and full-time.

Team & Market Scope

You will oversee export activities focused on the MENA and EU regions and coordinate with related regions in the USA and South Africa. The role combines commercial ownership, relationship building, and operational execution.