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Sustainability Manager

KRAHN Chemie Group • Netherlands • Added on Jul 20, 2026
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Working directly with the Chief Sustainability Officer, you will bridge the gap between high-level ESG strategy and the everyday realities of chemical distribution. You will own the execution of strategic sustainability initiatives, translating complex European regulations into actionable business opportunities for commercial teams. This is a dynamic, high-visibility role where you will manage cross-functional projects and oversee product-level assessments.

The chemical industry is at a critical crossroads, and this role places you at the heart of its transformation. By focusing on circularity, Life Cycle Assessments, and carbon data, you help turn specialty chemicals from a traditional environmental challenge into a driver of sustainable innovation. You will play a vital part in redefining how a century-old family business creates long-term value for its European partners.

This suits someone who thrives on autonomy and possesses the commercial acumen to explain the business value of ESG to diverse stakeholders. You should be equally comfortable discussing technical legislation and advising corporate leadership.

Job-FAQs

What are the main missions and responsibilities of this role?

As a Sustainability Manager at KRAHN, you will serve as the primary engine for strategic sustainability initiatives. You are responsible for navigating the company through the evolving landscape of European regulations, such as the PPWR and EmpCo, ensuring that these requirements are integrated into the business model rather than treated as simple compliance checklists. Your day-to-day will involve collaborating with the commercial teams to identify where sustainable services can add value to the portfolio. You will also provide guidance to the in-house LCA Specialist, ensuring that product environmental footprints are accurate and useful for customer decision-making.

Key learning opportunities for this job

This position offers an exceptional deep dive into the regulatory mechanics of the chemical industry. You will gain first-hand experience in applying EU climate policy and circular economy principles to a complex international supply chain, which is a highly sought-after expertise in today's market. Furthermore, you will sharpen your leadership and strategic skills by working closely with the Chief Sustainability Officer. This mentorship provides a unique window into how sustainability is integrated into the executive decision-making processes of a large, family-owned European group.

How does the ideal candidate look like (experience, skills)?

The ideal candidate combines a practical business mindset with a deep passion for environmental impact. You should possess a solid foundation in carbon accounting, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies, and current EU sustainability legislation. A background in the chemical or wholesale industry is a significant advantage. Soft skills are paramount here; you need to be a natural networker who can build partnerships across different cultures and departments. Fluency in English and proficiency with modern digital tools, including AI-driven analytical software, will be essential for managing the group's data and reporting needs.

Advice to stand out and make a successful application

To stand out, move beyond the 'compliance' mindset in your application. KRAHN is looking for someone who sees sustainability as a business development tool. Emphasize moments in your career where you have translated complex data or regulations into concrete commercial advantages or operational improvements. Show that you understand the specific challenges of the chemical sector. Mentioning your perspective on circularity or the transition to bio-based materials will demonstrate that you have the industry-specific foresight needed to influence the company’s long-term strategy.

What aspects of the company's sustainability is this role likely to focus on?

The role focuses heavily on product-level sustainability and supply chain transparency. A major emphasis is placed on Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) and the conversion of carbon data into actionable guidance for customers. This helps the company transition from being a simple distributor to a value-added sustainability partner. You will also be tasked with employee engagement and training. By developing webinars and educational programs, you ensure that the entire European sales force is equipped to discuss ESG topics with their respective markets, embedding sustainability into the corporate DNA.

What are the main challenges someone in this role might face?

One of the primary challenges will be the coordination of diverse stakeholders across multiple European subsidiaries. Each region may have different levels of maturity regarding sustainability, requiring you to be highly adaptable in your communication style and approach to change management. Additionally, keeping pace with the rapidly changing EU regulatory environment while maintaining a focus on commercial operations can be demanding. You will need to filter through the 'noise' of legislation to find the specific signals that matter most to KRAHN's customers and suppliers.

How could a typical day look like for someone in this position?

A typical morning might involve a squad meeting with the LCA Specialist to review carbon data for a new line of heat transfer fluids. This is followed by a briefing session with the CSO to align on group-wide strategic priorities or preparation for an upcoming webinar for the Italian sales team. In the afternoon, your focus might shift to external stakeholder engagement, such as joining a Zoom call with a major supplier to discuss their circularity roadmap or helping a commercial manager respond to a complex ESG tender from a key customer.

What are the opportunities for professional growth and development in this role?

Given the visibility of this role to senior leadership, there is significant potential for professional advancement. As the group's sustainability functions mature, successful managers may move into more senior strategic roles or lead specialized regional sustainability hubs. KRAHN is part of the Otto Krahn Group, providing a platform for international career development. The entrepreneurial culture encourages you to pitch and lead your own projects, which can serve as a catalyst for rapid internal recognition and professional growth.

The main stakeholders you might be interacting with

Your closest collaborator will be the Chief Sustainability Officer, who provides strategic direction. You will also work daily with the in-house LCA Specialist and various commercial teams across the European subsidiaries to support their sales and marketing efforts. Externally, you will interact with international chemical manufacturers and a broad base of over 5,000 customers. Being a bridge between these suppliers and the end-market is the essence of this role, making your networking skills a critical asset.

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