BIRKENSTOCK is a global brand which embraces all consumers regardless of geography, gender, age and income. The company is deeply footed on a family tradition of shoemaking that can be traced back to 1774. With around 6200 employees worldwide, BIRKENSTOCK is the largest employer in the German footwear industry. To ensure our quality standards, we produce over 95% of our products in Germany and source more than 90% of our materials and components from Europe. The BIRKENSTOCK Group is headquartered in Linz am Rhein and maintains several locations in Germany, as well as sales offices in Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia.

Join us in shaping the future at our location in Cologne as a
Head of Sports & Outdoor Europe (m/f/d)

• Lead and oversee our retail expansion strategy across Europe, including location acquisition, contract management, property financials and costs, and optimization of rollout processes
• Conduct thorough market research and analysis, negotiate properties, establish lease conditions to align with our strategic objectives, and realize regular Market visits
• Partner and strengthen relationships with brokers, landlords, and real estate networks throughout Europe
• Collaborate closely with Retail Operations to ensure timely resolution of landlord obligations and health and safety issues
• Drive transformative initiatives, streamline processes, and develop best practices to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
• Review financials, manage contracts, and oversee investment and divestment strategies for our store fleet
• Facilitate and assist in market research and analysis, including regular Market visits
• Develop high-impact presentations to effectively communicate and engage key stakeholders on Retail Europe strategy and provide status updates on key initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams globally and in Europe to align strategies and strengthen connections with the European real estate market

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in project management and real estate across Europe
• Experience in the footwear industry is a plus
• Expertise in broker and landlord management, and rollout strategies In-depth knowledge of property law, taxes, financial statements, accounting, and finance principles
• Well-versed in technical operations, facilities management, and procurement practices
• Strong ability to lead change and foster a culture of innovation within the team
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in diverse teams Flexibility and willingness to travel extensively across Europe

BIRKENSTOCK offers you all the advantages of a successful, fast growing, global company: dynamic work environment, considerable design freedom, authentic and open corporate culture and excellent development opportunities.