COO

The organisation

Container Centralen (CC) has been the specialist in flower and plant containers in Europe for nearly 50 years. CC’s pooling system connects more than 20.000 growers, auction houses, retailers and transporters. CC offers these supply chain partners logistical solutions and manages and operates a fleet of standardized RTIs (Reusable Transport Items). With the reusable CC Containers and the CC pooling system, Container Centralen contributes to an efficient and sustainable way of transporting flowers and plants. The company employs 85 people across Europe.

The position

As COO, you are responsible for CC’s European operations, ensuring excellent customer service. Your scope includes equipment procurement, repair and maintenance centers, depot networks, product availability, and logistics. You coach operational managers and oversee physical service delivery and direct costs. Your mandate is to streamline structures and processes, enhance predictability and performance, and implement data-driven management. The role is based in Hoofddorp, Netherlands, with regular travel across Europe.

Tasks & responsibilities

• Drive efficient, customer-focused operations. Lead high-performing teams and ensure vendor compliance and continuous improvement.
• Improve internal processes and vendor partner performance.
• Translate strategy into actionable plans, performance goals, and annual operations.
• Provide accurate cost reporting to support forecasting and control.
• Partner with key departments to boost operational efficiency and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Build strong relationships with vendors and stakeholders.
• Coach managers and develop teams through KPI-driven leadership.

Candidate profile

The ideal candidate is down-to-earth and hands-on, with a strong, energetic, and enthusiastic personality. He/she demonstrates a clear focus on operational excellence and maintains a strong customer orientation.

• Master’s degree with 12–18 years of relevant experience.
• Proven track record in transport, logistics, food, and agriculture—ideally horticulture.
• Experienced in supply chain and RTI pooling systems.
• Strong in team alignment, solution design, and execution.
• Skilled in managing outsourced operations and vendors, ensuring quality, cost, and compliance.
• Practical use of digital tools to improve operational efficiency and transparency.
• Experienced in leading and coaching teams with a focus on performance management and continuous improvement.
• Fluent in business English; other languages are a plus.

Interested?

You can apply for this position by using the link below.