BU Bikes Strategy and Operations Director

Bikes BU Strategy & Operations Director
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Work model: Hybrid 
Employment type: Full-time, permanent 
Languages: Fluency in English

At Accell Group, we’re not just building bikes — we’re creating experiences that move the world forward. Our mission is to craft the joy of cycling. Our ambition is riding together to win. 

As Director of Strategy & Operations, you’ll play a critical leadership role in the Bikes Business Unit, one of Accell Group’s largest and most complex. Partnering closely with the EVP Bikes, you’ll develop and execute the strategic roadmap, own the operational rhythm of the BU, and align cross-functional teams behind a common vision for growth. You’ll translate strategy into action, turning ideas into measurable impact. This role involves approximately 30% travel, primarily to Germany and France.

What you’ll do 

• Strategic Roadmap: Developing and refreshing the BU’s medium- to long-term strategy, identifying growth opportunities, monitoring market trends, competition, and external signals to validate or reframe priorities as the landscape evolves. Overseeing the execution of strategic plans across markets, including pricing, discounting, and distribution strategies, in close alignment with Commercial Excellence.
• Operational Rhythm: Owning the BU's core processes (Heartbeat, Ignite/New Product Development, and the annual calendar), ensuring cross-functional teams are aligned and delivery is on time from planning through year-end execution.
• Resource & Process Management: Managing resource allocation across the BU to ensure priorities are appropriately staffed and funded. Continuously assessing and improving processes to enhance efficiency and maintain alignment with company standards.
• Governance & Performance: Designing and managing KPI frameworks, governance structures, business cases, and performance reviews that keep the BU accountable and on track.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Communicating strategic direction across all levels, senior leadership, regional teams, and key functions, and facilitating cross-functional workshops to drive decisions and execution.
• Cross-brand Collaboration: Ensuring harmonized decision-making and aligned ways of working across brands and business teams within the BU.
• Impact & Agility: Driving result orientation across the BU, identifying strategic and operational risks, developing mitigation plans, and ensuring the BU remains agile and impact-focused in a dynamic market environment.

What You Bring
• Proven experience in strategy and operations leadership, ideally in a matrix or multi-market environment
• Deep understanding of commercial strategy and market dynamics, with the ability to contribute genuine strategic input and drive business growth
• Experience owning operational frameworks, KPI systems, and leading cross-functional and regional teams
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, comfortable working at EVP and Leadership Team level
• Background in automotive, FMCG, or consumer goods preferred; curiosity about the bike industry matters more than direct experience
• Degree in Engineering, Business, or Strategy or related field

What can you expect from us? 
We offer a full-time permanent role in an international environment, with hybrid working and the opportunity to contribute to one of Accell’s most iconic brands. Further details on local benefits will be shared during the recruitment process.
About Accell Group

Accell Group is a leading European bicycle company, home to well-known bike brands and a strong bicycle parts and accessories business. With approximately 3,000 employees across 18 countries, we serve customers in more than 80 countries worldwide. 

At Accell, our culture is built on: 
• Taking Ownership: We deliver on our promises, continuously learn and improve, and take initiative with follow-through. 
• One Team: We value transparent feedback, respect everyone’s input, and celebrate success together. 
• Passion and Quality: We put our customers first, never compromise on quality or safety, and always go the extra mile. 

At Accell Group, we are driven by innovation, teamwork, and respect, offering challenging and rewarding opportunities for everyone who joins us. We foster an inclusive and diverse workplace where talent from all backgrounds is valued and supported. 

Want to know more? Learn about our story, brands, and culture at accell-group.com

Ready to roll?

If you’re up for the challenge, Apply today!

About Us

Accell Group manufactures and sells bicycles, bike parts, and accessories. We are the European market leader in e-bikes and the second largest in bike parts and accessories, with many leading European bicycle brands under one roof. Well-known bicycle brands in our portfolio include Haibike, Winora, Ghost, Batavus, Koga, Lapierre, Raleigh, Sparta, Babboe, and Carqon. XLC is our brand for bike parts and accessories.

At Accell Group, we believe in creating innovative solutions to meet the ever-evolving needs of our valued customers. As a leading player in the e-bikes and the second-largest provider of bicycle parts and accessories, our commitment to excellence is reflected in everything we do.

We foster an inclusive and diverse workplace where talent from all backgrounds is valued and supported. Our global team of approximately 2,000 employees across 18 countries works together to deliver premier products and services to clients in more than 80 countries worldwide.

At Accell Group, our culture is driven by innovation, teamwork, and respect, offering challenging and rewarding opportunities for everyone who joins us.