Our client, Ludvig Svensson, is seeking a Commercial Manager to lead and develop the commercial organization for their North American business. Ludvig Svensson is the pioneer and world leader in climate control and energy-efficient textile solutions for the horticulture industry, with a legacy deeply rooted in Swedish craftsmanship and boasting over 130 years of ground-breaking innovation. With a longstanding presence in the US and Canada spanning decades, supported by a local team close to the market, Svensson understands the unique needs of North American growers while leveraging the expertise of a global industry leader. Their solutions create a better climate for people and plants using less energy, water, and chemicals. Backed by continuous investments in R&D and a deep understanding of professional greenhouse cultivation, their solutions are meticulously crafted through ongoing technological advancements, material enhancements, and sustainable processes deployed worldwide.

For more info and inspiration, visit ludvigsvensson.com

About the Position

As Commercial Manager, you will be responsible for driving sales, marketing, customer service, and long-term growth for the US and Canadian business unit. This hands-on leadership role has a strong commercial focus and combines strategic business planning, key account responsibility, team leadership, and operational execution. You will be expected to manage both existing business and new business development, translate group strategies into local action plans, and ensure the organization meets its annual and long-term targets.

This position is based in Charlotte, NC, with flexibility for remote work for those willing to spend approximately one week per month in the Charlotte office.

You will report directly to the CCO at Ludvig Svensson’s in the Netherlands. Up to 50% travel is required, primarily within the US and Canada, with occasional travel to Europe. Your primary responsibilities include:

• Lead the sales, marketing, and customer service functions for the North American business unit, ensuring alignment with group goals, policies, and commercial strategy
• Develop and execute annual business plans, financial forecasts, activity plans, and balanced scorecards for the sales and marketing organization
• Drive business development across the territory, including identifying new opportunities, expanding key accounts, and achieving sales targets
• Take direct responsibility for selected key accounts and maintain strong relationships with customers, partners, and external stakeholders
• Oversee sales reporting, KPI tracking, financial follow-up, and commercial performance management in line with group guidelines
• Ensure compliance with company procedures, reporting standards, policies, and instructions
• Provide leadership to the commercial organization, including hiring, talent development, team communication, and performance management
• Build a results-oriented, collaborative culture where employees are motivated, developed, and recognized for both individual and team contributions
• Promote a “OneSvensson” approach by collaborating closely with other business units and colleagues across the global organization
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging technologies, and represent the company at trade shows, translating insights into actionable strategies

What We Expect From You

Your Work Experience, Education & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, engineering, or a related field
• Min. 7 years of B2B sales, business development, and commercial leadership
• Experience in horticulture, Controlled Environment Agriculture, ag tech, greenhouse technology, or a related industry is a big plus
• Experience managing, developing, and leading a team
• Previous experience in an international organization or matrix structure is strongly preferred
• Ability to drive the sales process from planning and prospecting through execution, negotiation, and successful closing
• Experience developing and implementing commercial strategies, business plans, forecasts, and activity plans
• Ability to identify new business opportunities, improve business models, and drive continuous improvement within a commercial team
• Strong understanding of key business functions, including sales, marketing, and customer service
• Proficient in CRM systems. Salesforce experience is a plus
• Project management experience and the capability to lead both strategic and operational initiatives
• A practical, hands-on, and solution-oriented approach to business and operations
• Ownership mindset with the ability to make difficult decisions when needed
• Friendly, down-to-earth leadership style with the ability to motivate, engage, and develop others
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, internally and externally

What We Offer is More than Just a Job….

• An excellent team-focused work environment with huge visibility for your efforts
• An opportunity to be a part of a truly innovative and leading international company focused on sustainable solutions and practices
• Competitive compensation package and benefits