Company Description

AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes EMEA partners with bodyshops and refinish professionals across the region to improve quality, speed, and profitability through innovative coating solutions and practical process support. The business offers product and system highlights from leading brands such as Sikkens, Lesonal, Dynacoat, and Wanda, complemented by training, events, and technical expertise. As part of AkzoNobel, a global paints and coatings leader active in more than 150 countries, Vehicle Refinishes EMEA benefits from a long heritage of innovation dating back to 1792. The company is committed to sustainable solutions that protect and enhance surfaces, helping customers reduce rework, improve consistency, and build more efficient, future-ready operations. Role Description The Vice-President of Global Strategic Partnerships for AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes EMEA is a full-time, remote role responsible for defining and leading the partnership strategy across the region and key global accounts. This role oversees the development and management of strategic alliances with OEMs, large bodyshop groups, distributors, and other ecosystem partners to drive growth, innovation, and competitive advantage. Daily responsibilities include setting partnership objectives, negotiating and structuring agreements, guiding joint business plans, and ensuring flawless execution in collaboration with sales, marketing, technical, and operations teams. The Vice-President monitors partnership performance, identifies new opportunities, and aligns initiatives with AkzoNobel’s broader business and sustainability strategies. The role also involves representing the business in senior customer and industry forums, providing thought leadership, and coaching regional and global teams on best practices in strategic partnership management.

Qualifications

Demonstrated expertise in Business Relationship Management and Account Management to build and sustain long-term, high-impact partner and customer connections. Proven ability in Strategic Partnerships and Strategic Planning to design, negotiate, and execute partnership frameworks aligned with global business objectives. Strong Business Planning capabilities to lead joint plans, performance reviews, and growth initiatives with complex, multi-country partners. Extensive senior leadership experience in B2B environments, ideally within coatings, automotive, or industrial sectors, with responsibility for regional or global portfolios. Strong commercial acumen, including contract negotiation, P&L understanding, and data-driven decision-making. Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to operate effectively in a matrix and multicultural environment. Experience leading remote and cross-functional teams and driving change across multiple countries and cultures. Advanced degree in Business, Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered. Fluency in English required; additional EMEA languages are an advantage.