General Manager Automation & Digital Solutions

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for automation and digital transformation in the maritime industry? Do you have the strategic insight and commercial drive to shape the future of automation solutions? Royal IHC is looking for an ambitious General Manager Automation & Digital Solutions to spearhead our automation and digital strategy, expand our market reach, and drive innovation.
The role:
As our new General Manager Automation & Digital Solutions, you will take a leading role in identifying and developing commercial opportunities for automation solutions in the maritime sector. You will have a direct impact on the direction of our automation strategy and play a key role in shaping the future of Royal IHC's Systems discipline a dynamic team combining automation and digital solutions.

With a team of 100+ FTE, consisting largely of engineers alongside teams responsible for panel construction and installation supervision, and an annual revenue of €20 to €25 million, this is an exciting opportunity to lead, innovate, and drive success in a fast-evolving industry.

A key challenge in this role is to modernize and rejuvenate the department, ensuring a fresh and future-proof workforce. Additionally, while our focus has traditionally been on the dredging industry, we are looking for a leader who can expand our business into new markets, reducing our dependence on dredging. You will have the freedom to explore new industries, create opportunities, and drive business development to secure long-term growth.
Your Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the automation and digital solutions strategy with a long-term business perspective.
• Expand our business into new industries, reducing reliance on dredging by identifying and developing new market opportunities.
• Leverage your strong external network of customers and subcontractors to strengthen business partnerships and drive growth.
• Inspire and lead a multidisciplinary team by structuring activities, coaching talent, and driving performance.
• Translate market needs and emerging technologies into commercially successful products and solutions.
• Develop and implement business plans, ensuring alignment with Royal IHC’s overall strategy.
• Manage operations, resolve capacity challenges, and improve operational flexibility.
• Lead and participate in cross-functional projects to enhance automation solutions and market positioning.
• Modernize and rejuvenate the department by attracting and developing new talent, ensuring a dynamic and future-ready team.
• Establish and maintain high standards across all automation and control activities within Royal IHC.

Your profile:
You are a senior leader with a proven track record in automation, control, and digital transformation within the maritime or industrial sector. You combine technical expertise with commercial acumen and have the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.

We are looking for a candidate with:

• 10+ years of experience in automation & control, preferably in the maritime sector.
• A strong industry network of subcontractors, contractors, and customers, allowing you to drive business development and strategic collaborations.
• Proven ability to negotiate at C-level and set up joint ventures and strategic partnerships.
• A successful track record in developing and launching new business propositions in diverse industries.
• Strong organizational awareness and the ability to engage and align teams across Royal IHC.
• A technical background (academic level), preferably combined with an MBA.
• Hands-on experience with AI, IoT, and the latest automation technologies.
• Fluency in Dutch and English and willingness to work in the Rotterdam area.
   

Only candidates with a valid EU work visa will be considered.
 

We offer:

• A gross monthly salary between €7984,- and €10.500,- + 8% holiday allowance (based on a full-time working week).
• Good work/life balance with 40 vacation days for full-time employment with the option to buy or sell (additional) leave.  
• A company car.
• An average salary pension scheme in which matters are properly arranged in the event of accidental death, incapacity for work or unemployment.  
• Good disability insurance.  
• Participation (on a voluntary basis) in the Social Fund, on the basis of which care and related costs are reimbursed that are not covered by your health insurance.  
• Discount on VGZ's additional healthcare insurance.    
• A training budget of €1,500 every three years.   
• Unlimited sporting in our own fitness room (in exchange for the sustainable employability day). 
• A profit-sharing scheme. 
   

In 2042 (when we exist 400 years) Royal IHC will be a fully sustainable company with a net-zero portfolio. 
 

Selection process:
After your application, a CV screening will take place. If your profile aligns sufficiently, a brief telephone intake with the Corporate Recruiter will follow. If not, you will be informed via email. The selection process consists of two interview rounds. The first interview will be with the manager and a direct colleague. During the second interview, another manager and someone from HR will join. If everyone is enthusiastic, a phone call will follow to discuss the terms of employment.