About the Company
Our client is a leading European industrial machinery manufacturer, recognized for its innovation, engineering excellence, and high-quality equipment for industrial and manufacturing applications. With operations across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, the company combines advanced technology with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and sustainable growth.
To strengthen its presence in Asia, the company is seeking a
General Manager for its China operations
to lead the local organization, drive profitable growth, and ensure strong alignment with the group's global strategy and standards.
Role Overview
The
General Manager
will have full P&L responsibility for the company's China entity, overseeing all business functions including sales, operations, finance, HR, and manufacturing (if applicable). The role's primary objective is to ensure sustainable business growth, operational efficiency, and full compliance with both local regulations and the group's global policies.
The General Manager will act as the main liaison between the European headquarters and the Chinese organization, ensuring effective communication, cultural understanding, and strategic alignment.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and implement the China business strategy in alignment with global objectives.
- Identify market opportunities, drive commercial expansion, and strengthen relationships with key clients and distributors.
- Develop local partnerships and manage government or industry relationships to support business growth.
- Oversee daily operations including sales, supply chain, service, and administration.
- Drive operational excellence, efficiency, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure full compliance with group policies, legal requirements, and safety standards.
- Manage P&L and deliver sustainable profitability.
- Set budgets, forecasts, and KPIs in coordination with headquarters.
- Monitor performance and implement corrective measures when needed.
- Lead and develop a multidisciplinary local team.
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance.
- Ensure alignment with the company's global values, ethics, and work culture.
- Act as the main communication bridge between the China organization and European headquarters.
- Report regularly on financial and operational performance.
- Ensure alignment in product, quality, and compliance standards.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field (MBA preferred).
- Minimum 10–15 years of experience in industrial machinery, capital equipment, or manufacturing sectors.
- Proven track record in a senior management or General Manager role within an international company.
- Strong understanding of the Chinese industrial market and regulatory environment.
- Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing P&L responsibility.
- Strategic thinker with strong business acumen.
- Excellent leadership and people management skills.
- Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
- Financially literate with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Fluent in English and Mandarin (spoken and written).
- Cross-cultural sensitivity and the ability to operate effectively within a European corporate environment.