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Experience HELM as a unique family business and an attractive employer. Through a constant exchange of ideas, our ultimate goal is to offer our customers future-oriented solutions within our global network. At any time, in any place. This allows us to work proactively and think long-term - in operations, quality management, process optimization, product development and distribution. We are innovation drivers, possibility makers and a reliable partner, all in one.

(Senior) Strategic Business Development Manager - Footwear Industry (m/f/d)

Date:  Dec 17, 2025
Location: 

Hamburg, DE, 20097

Business Unit:  Chemicals
Job Function:  Product Management
Level of Experience:  Executive

Qore is a groundbreaking joint venture between HELM and Cargill, focused on delivering sustainable solutions through biomass-derived 1,4 Butanediol (BDO). Our mission is to transform industries by enabling innovative, low-carbon materials for a better future.

We are seeking a (Senior) Strategic Business Development Manager (m/f/d) to drive the expansion of Qore’s business network within Europe, specifically targeting the footwear industry.

This role will focus on building strategic relationships with leading footwear brands and their Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers to accelerate the adoption of Qore’s sustainable solutions.

Your Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and maintain strategic relationships with major footwear brands and their supply chain partners.
  • Facilitate the integration of QIRA biomass-derived 1,4 Butanediol into footwear components across the value chain.
  • Create compelling value propositions for complex technical sales.
  • Conduct market analysis and develop strategies to grow QIRA’s presence in the footwear sector.
  • Collaborate with channel partners and internal teams to deliver brand assets and supporting materials.
  • Represent Qore at industry events and engage with senior decision-makers to promote sustainability initiatives.

Your Profile:

  • Bachelors’ degree ideally in a technical discipline - with a Masters’ degree or MBA preferred.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in the footwear industry, ideally with a major brand or Tier 1 supplier.
  • Proven ability to access and influence senior decision-makers at leading footwear brands and suppliers.
  • Strong understanding of the footwear value chain, including materials, components, and business practices.
  • Solid knowledge of sustainability concepts such as PCF, LCA, CI, and relevant certifications.
  • Demonstrated success in sales and marketing of branded products, raw materials, or goods to footwear brands.
  • Skilled in market analysis, strategy development, and creating winning value propositions for technical solutions.
  • Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills; able to work independently and in virtual teams.
  • Resilient decision-maker with the ability to manage ambiguity and conflict effectively.

Every day, each one of us contributes to HELM's success with competence, the highest expertise and unique service. We reward this commitment - not only with international opportunities, possibilities for seminars and further training but also with benefits that offer optimal conditions to reach the perfect work-life balance.

Interested?

Join our motivated team and help shaping the future of HELM! Even if you do not fulfil all of the requirements in our profile, we encourage you to apply. It is important to us to find the right people who will enrich our team with their motivation and personality!

We look forward to receiving your application with all the necessary documents via our application portal.

Apply now »