Manager Sales Automation & Digital Solutions

Careers at Royal IHC

Introduction

Are you a commercially driven professional with a strong affinity for technology? Do you want to take a leading role in shaping the future of maritime automation and digitalisation? Join Royal IHC, a global leader in the dredging industry, as Manager Sales Automation & Digital Solutions. This is your chance to lead international sales efforts, grow into new markets, and contribute directly to the green transition of the maritime sector.

At Royal IHC, the Systems business has a unique and highly valued proposition. With increasing demand for vessel greening, energy storage, peak shaving, and alternative fuels, we have the opportunity – and the capabilities – to play a key role in making the maritime industry more sustainable. The automation team, currently around 100 FTE strong, is positioned for growth. We are looking for a hands-on manager to lead the Sales activities and drive this expansion forward.

The Role

As Manager Sales Automation & Digital Solutions, you will lead the commercial development of our automation solutions. You’ll be part of a dynamic environment where technology, sustainability, and customer focus meet. You manage a team of 3 Proposal Engineers who support you with technical proposals and estimations, while you take the lead in developing customer relationships, shaping value propositions, and closing deals.

You’ll take ownership of your own client portfolio, identify new business opportunities in and beyond the dredging industry, and work closely with internal stakeholders to align technical capabilities with commercial goals. This is a strategic, operational, and people-oriented role.

What’s in it for you?

• The opportunity for personal development and growth in a fast-evolving technical environment.
• A strategic and autonomous role in a dynamic international setting, where you can truly make an impact.
• The chance to develop new markets beyond the traditional dredging sector, opening up exciting commercial opportunities.
• An experienced and supportive team of professionals who value collaboration and innovation.
• A dynamic team and informal work atmosphere where entrepreneurship is encouraged.
• The ability to contribute directly to strengthening the market position of the Systems division, through close collaboration with marketing on impactful campaigns and cross-selling initiatives.
• A challenging and independent role that combines technology, sustainability, and commercial strategy.

Your Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a small team of Proposal Engineers, fostering a culture of ownership, development, and collaboration.
• Drive the sales strategy for automation and digital solutions, both within the dredging market and in new, adjacent sectors.
• Develop compelling customer propositions based on technical capabilities such as AI, IoT, energy systems, and automation.
• Set and execute the sales plan within the Systems business unit, aligning with the wider Equipment division strategy.
• Improve and structure internal sales processes using KPIs and data-driven insights – from pipeline development to performance tracking.
• Work closely with marketing to launch targeted campaigns and support cross-selling across Royal IHC.
• Represent Royal IHC in commercial discussions, manage complex sales cycles, and contribute to long-term customer partnerships.

Your Profile

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, preferably in a technical or business-related field.
• Proven experience in B2B sales within a technical or capital goods environment – preferably maritime or industrial.
• Strong communication skills and commercial instinct – you're outgoing, proactive, and able to connect with clients at all levels.
• Affinity with technology and automation – you can translate complex solutions into customer value (without needing to do the engineering yourself).
• Demonstrated leadership experience or ambition – you can develop people and build high-performing teams.
• Hands-on, entrepreneurial mindset with a structured approach to sales and process improvement.
• Experience with international business, complex negotiations, and deal team coordination.
• Fluent in English (Dutch is a strong plus); willingness to travel occasionally and work in the Rotterdam area.

What We Offer

• A competitive gross monthly salary, aligned with your experience and expertise, plus 8% holiday allowance
• A good work-life balance with 40 days of leave per year (full-time), plus the option to buy or sell additional leave
• Voluntary participation in the Social Fund, which reimburses healthcare and related costs not covered by your health insurance
• Discounts on supplementary health insurance via VGZ
• Unlimited access to our on-site gym (in exchange for a sustainable employability day)
• A profit-sharing scheme

Fluent in English (Dutch is a strong plus); willingness to travel occasionally and work in the Rotterdam area.

About Us

Royal IHC is a leading supplier of maritime technology and expert craftsmanship. Driven by innovation, our dedicated experts provide a competitive edge to our worldwide customers in the dredging, offshore, mining and defence industries. However, Royal IHC is much more than vessels, equipment and services.

We deliver reliable, integrated solutions that improve operational efficiency and create a platform for a more sustainable performance. As we navigate new waters, our aim remains unchanged: to discover the smartest and safest way forward for both our customers and our people. Together, we create the maritime future.

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