Business Development Manager – Footwear Thread, EMEA, BresciaClient: CoatsJob Category: OtherEU work permit required: YesCoats is a world leader in thread manufacturing and structural components for apparel and footwear, as well as an innovative pioneer in performance materials. These critical solutions are used to create a wide range of products, including ones that provide safety and protection for people, data and the environment.Trusted by the world's leading companies to deliver crucial, innovative, and sustainable solutions, we provide value-adding products including apparel, footwear and speciality threads.With a proud heritage dating back more than 250 years and a spirit of evolution to constantly stay ahead of changing market needs, we have operations across 50 countries with a workforce of over 17,000, serving our customers worldwide.Headquartered in the UK, Coats connects talent, textiles, and technology to make a better and more sustainable world.Role PurposeThe Business Development Manager – Footwear Thread, EMEA is responsible for driving commercial growth, expanding market share, and developing strategic customer relationships across the footwear industry. This role focuses on promoting the company's technical sewing thread solutions to footwear manufacturers, brands, and distributors throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.The ideal candidate combines strong commercial acumen with a technical understanding of footwear construction, materials, and performance requirements.Key Responsibilities
Identify, develop, and convert new business opportunities across the EMEA footwear industryConduct market mapping—segmenting brands, Tier 1 manufacturers, distributors, and estimating trend usageLead penetration strategies for key categories (e.g., athletic shoes, outdoor footwear, safety boots, lifestyle, accessories, etc.)Build and maintain a strong pipeline aligned with revenue growth targetsServe as the primary commercial contact for footwear brands, manufacturers and distributorsDevelop account strategies, pricing proposals, and volume forecastsSupport technical presentations and product demonstrations to customersCollaborate with customer designers, product managers, and technical teams to specify thread types and performance requirements early in the product development cycle
Technical & Product Expertise
Understand thread manufacturing processes and their application in footwear stitchingAdvise customers on thread selection for durability, seam strength, aesthetics, and cost optimisationProvide feedback to innovation and product teams regarding customer needs and market trendsDevelop and execute the EMEA Go-to-Market (GTM) strategy for the footwear segmentWork closely with supply chain teams to ensure product availability and efficient order fulfilmentCoordinate with product & marketing to align on brand strategies
Performance Tracking & Reporting
Monitor sales metrics, pricing performance, and competitive dynamicsPrepare monthly business reviews, forecasts, and strategic account plansMaintain accurate CRM records and pipeline visibility
Qualifications and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Material Science, or related field (Master's preferred)5–10 years of experience in business development or technical sales in the footwear, textiles, or materials industriesStrong understanding of footwear construction (uppers, outsoles, technical stitching, seam engineering)Proven track record of delivering sales growth across multi-country territoriesExperience working with global footwear brands and manufacturing partners is highly desirableFluency in English required; additional EMEA languages (German, Italian) are a plusAbility to travel up to 60% across the region
At Coats Group, we are committed to innovation, excellence, and fostering a diverse and collaborative environment where every team member can thrive. If you are passionate about making an impact in the textile industry and eager to join a global leader with a rich heritage and a forward-thinking approach, we invite you to take the next step in your career with us.Apply now to be part of our dynamic team and help shape the future of textiles.#J-18808-Ljbffr