Versele-Laga is a leading manufacturer of high quality food and care products for pet and performance animals with 10 factories in 3 continents. We sell our strong brands in over 85 countries thanks to our team of 1.100 colleagues with a true passion for animals. Our group headquarters are based in Deinze near Ghent. We produce more than 95% of our products in house starting from the best raw materials until the final packed product.
After more than 90 years of expertise since our founding, we are still a rock solid family owned company with a unique culture based on respect, passion and engagement. Our track record of strong growth continues in our long term ambitions based on innovation, high investments, regional expansion and of course our dedicated teams.
Every day, we are nurturing the bond between people and over 25 Million animals with the best nutrition and care products. We take our responsibility to improve the wellbeing of people and animals seriously through a wide range of initiatives. Next to that, we contribute to a better planet through local sourcing, lower CO2 emissions, energy and waste reduction.
In the United States, Versele-Laga oversees four core company brands: Versele-Laga, Higgins Premium Pet Foods, Cavalor and Roudybush.
· Versele-Laga and Higgins Premium Pet foods operate out of Miami, FL and offer a wide assortment of food, treats and supplements for birds, small animals and pigeons. They are committed to providing pets with the highest quality nutrition free of any artificial flavors, colors and preservatives.
· Cavalor operates out of Dalton, GA and produces a complete line of premium horse feed, supplements and care products. They are focused on addressing the unique nutritional issues and challenges in the equine industry and are considered a leading nutrition solution provider.
· Roudybush operates out of Sacramento, CA and is a specialized bird food manufacturer. It offers science-based pellets, nectars, squab, and other diets for companion birds.
Role:
As Key Account Manager Specialized Chains, you will play a pivotal role in driving the international growth of Versele-Laga with our most strategic retail partners. You will take ownership of key account development across multiple markets, while actively supporting the Channel Manager in executing the overall channel strategy and coaching local KAMs.
Key Responsibilities
1. Key Account Management
Act as an expert in client organizations and strategies, building strong networks through events, fairs, and direct interactions.
Perform in-depth analysis of sales, distribution, and market data to identify growth drivers and assess potential risks.
Translate Versele-Laga’s specialized chains strategy into actionable and tailored key account plans.
Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, marketing, logistics, finance, and customer service to ensure alignment (e.g. category management projects, communication planning, supply coordination).
Lead negotiations at HQ level and ensure flawless execution through client-side stakeholders such as category managers, online teams, and supply chain.
Coordinate key accounts across countries in alignment with local Versele-Laga teams (e.g. pricing, contracts, and commercial alignment).
Report regularly to the Channel Manager and provide accurate input for forecasting and go-to-market optimization.
2. Strategic Support
Support the Channel Manager in rolling out the modern trade strategy across international markets.
Help optimizing global processes in KAM.
Coach and guide local Key Account Managers to ensure strategic consistency and strong execution.
Work closely with Country Sales Managers to align on market-specific needs and opportunities.
Profile:
You hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. Business, Economics, Marketing).
You are fluent in Dutch, French and English; knowledge of German is a strong asset.
You have 3 to 5 years of experience in national Key Account Management, preferably within an (international) FMCG environment.
You have a proven track record in:
Developing and executing Key Account Plans
Applying Category Management principles
Performing data analysis (e.g., Nielsen, GfK, retailer data)
Leading cross-functional projects from concept to completion
International experience is considered a plus.
Experience in the pet food industry is an advantage, not a requirement.
Strong analytical and strategic mindset, able to translate data into action
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a commercial instinct
Demonstrates resilience, ownership and perseverance in a dynamic environment
Comfortable working in an international and cross-cultural setting
Willing to travel regularly, with 1–2 days/week at our headquarters in Deinze and the rest dedicated to customer visits across your region
Our offer:
A competitive salary and benefits package tailored to your experience and impact.
The opportunity to work with a passionate and driven team in a dynamic and growing industry.
A leading role in a large, ambitious, and international family-owned company, where your contributions truly matter.
The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pets and their owners worldwide.
A collaborative and innovative work environment that values your ideas and creativity.
A unique perk: your well-behaved pet (dog, cat, rabbit, bird, or chicken) could become one of our cherished office companions!
A true family atmosphere, including active participation in team events such as the Versele-Laga Run in Deinze, the Versele-Laga Classic (cycling), and more.