Global Talent Acquisition Lead

BioFirst Group is a global player in biological pest and disease control and bumblebee pollination. It offers a full range of IPM (Integrated Pest Monitoring) solutions, including beneficial insects, predatory mites, bumblebees, insect pathogenic nematodes, biopesticides, biostimulants, biofertilisers and inoculants as well as high-tech monitoring and scouting. BioFirst has 32 production and/or distribution subsidiaries and employs 2800 employees worldwide. In addition, BioFirst has an extensive network of specialised distributors in an additional 50 countries and exports weekly to over 70 countries. BioFirst serves the horticultural market and the open field agricultural market, through four major brands: Biobest, BioWorks, Plant Products and Biotrop. Growth was achieved through both organic expansion and acquisitions and is backed by, among others, two Belgian holding companies and several private equity funds.

Today, we are looking for an experienced and skilled Global Talent Acquisition Lead to become part of our dynamic Global HR team based at our headquarters in Westerlo, Belgium. This role involves creating and executing thorough talent acquisition plans that support our global company goals. You will work closely with local recruiters via matrix (remote) management and partner with senior leadership to find and recruit top talent across different divisions, regions and departments. You will report directly to the CHRO.

Your mission

Your knowledge of global recruitment, market trends, diversity & inclusion and talent management will be key in building a diverse and effective workforce. Furthermore, you will strengthen our employer brand, refine recruitment processes, and guarantee a great candidate experience. This is a hands-on role, meaning it is both strategic and operational; you will personally conduct interviews and follow up the whole TA process for key roles within the worldwide organization.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in international recruitment and employment, outstanding communication skills, and a successful history of filling crucial positions in a fast-paced setting. If you have a passion for talent acquisition and a strategic approach, we are eager to connect with you.

Key Responsibilities

  • Create comprehensive recruitment plans that align with global objectives, identify innovative sourcing methods (digital & social media), and manage relationships with recruitment partners and agencies.
  • Supervise, mentor, and train a diverse team of recruiters across various regions, via matrix management, conduct performance evaluations, and foster a collaborative, high-performing environment.
  • Partner with executive leadership to understand and prioritize hiring needs, develop recruitment initiatives that support business growth, and provide market insights and recommendations.
  • Strengthen the employer brand and develop recruitment marketing strategies, streamline recruitment processes for efficiency, and ensure a positive candidate experience from application to onboarding.
  • Use data and analytics to drive recruitment strategies and decisions, monitor key recruitment metrics, conduct process audits, and report on KPIs to identify areas for improvement.
  • Source and engage potential candidates for critical roles, develop long-term relationships with candidates, and implement succession planning and talent mapping strategies.
  • Oversee relationships with external recruitment agencies and partners, negotiate contracts, and monitor partner performance to ensure alignment with company standards and cost-effective recruitment solutions.
  • Manage the implementation and utilization of recruitment technology and tools, ensure compliance with local and international hiring regulations, and conduct regular reviews to ensure the technology meets business needs. Advise in international employment and regulation and manage short- and long-term assignments/relocations.
  • Implement strategies to ensure a diverse and inclusive recruitment process, partner with internal teams on diversity initiatives, and monitor diversity metrics to implement necessary improvements.
  • Develop and manage recruitment budgets effectively, lead special projects and initiatives related to talent acquisition, and ensure alignment of these projects with overall business objectives.

Qualifications

  • Degree in HR, Social Sciences, Economics, Business Admin, or related field.
  • 7+ years in talent acquisition, including 3+ years globally.
  • Willing to travel internationally.
  • Proven success filling critical roles in fast-paced settings.
  • Expertise in global recruitment trends and best practices.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Leadership experience managing recruiting teams.
  • Familiarity with SAP SuccessFactors is a plus.
  • Knowledge of international employment (law) and hiring regulations is key.
  • Fluent in Dutch, French, and English; Portuguese and Spanish are a plus.
  • Team player with a drive for collaborative results.
  • Experienced with recruitment technology, data-driven strategies, and employer & employee branding.
  • Skilled in project management, problem-solving, and relationship building.
  • Adaptable to changing priorities and capable of handling confidential information.

What can you expect from us?

  • BioFirst Group offers you the opportunity to have a significant and lasting impact on the company and on a more sustainable agriculture and horticulture.
  • Our collective efforts ensure strong annual growth, and we maintain a continuous focus on sustainability and social responsibility initiatives.
  • A close-knit team of colleagues, each with their own area of expertise, ensures a good atmosphere and a winner's mentality.
  • You will receive a competitive salary package.