Retail Network & Business Development Manager

We are looking for an experienced, analytical and hands-on professional to lead the strategic development and expansion of our retail network in Italy while driving business growth and strengthening our retail partnerships.

As Retail Network & Business Development Manager, you will be responsible for defining and executing Polestar's retail expansion strategy in Italy while ensuring the long-term success and performance of our retail network.

Network Development & Expansion

• Analyze market opportunities and define network representation strategies through qualitative and quantitative assessment of market potential, customer demand and geographical coverage.
• Lead network management activities, including site selection, ownership changes, facility upgrades, additional points of representation and evaluation of underperforming locations.
• Identify, assess, recruit and onboard new retail partners and investors, ensuring alignment with Polestar's commercial objectives, operational requirements and brand standards.
• Develop business cases, feasibility studies and implementation plans to support network expansion and strategic market initiatives.
• Manage the activation of new Polestar Spaces and oversee the successful implementation of retail standards, facilities and operational requirements.
• Guide facility development projects and coordinate with retailers, investors, architects, consultants and contractors to ensure delivery on time and within agreed parameters.
• Manage retailer and investor agreements supporting network changes, facility developments and strategic initiatives.

Network Performance & Business Development

• Monitor network performance and partner effectiveness through defined KPIs and regular business reviews.
• Collaborate closely with commercial teams to identify performance gaps and develop corrective action plans supporting sustainable growth.
• Lead annual business planning activities with retail partners, aligning resources, investments and operational capabilities with market opportunities.
• Evaluate business development opportunities and strategic initiatives that strengthen Polestar's position in the Italian market.
• Support the development and implementation of new programs, tools and processes to continuously improve network performance and customer experience.
• Assess investment opportunities, business cases and commercial proposals to maximize long-term business value and return on investment.

Stakeholder Management & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with local market teams, regional stakeholders and global functions to align network and business development activities with overall company objectives.
• Work cross-functionally with Sales, Customer Experience, Product, Operations and other key functions to support successful market execution.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with retail partners and investors, acting as a trusted advisor for network development and future growth opportunities.
• Lead engagement with external stakeholders including suppliers, consultants, architectural and construction partners, and industry organizations.
• Coordinate with governmental, regulatory and industry stakeholders on market-specific requirements, compliance matters and strategic initiatives.
• Influence and align diverse stakeholder groups to support business objectives and deliver a consistent premium brand experience across the network.

Who you are You are a strategic thinker with a strong commercial mindset who enjoys turning opportunities into action. You combine analytical skills with hands-on execution and are comfortable navigating a fast-paced, evolving environment while managing multiple stakeholders and priorities. In addition, you bring:

• 5-7+ years of experience in network development, business development, program management, consulting or related roles within the automotive industry.
• University degree in Business Administration, Management or a related field; a Master's degree is considered an advantage.
• Proven experience managing complex projects involving network expansion, site selection, facility development and/or implementation of retail standards.
• Experience building and managing relationships with retailers, investors, dealer networks and external business partners.
• Strong business acumen, analytical capabilities and experience developing business cases and evaluating investment opportunities.
• Good understanding of automotive retail models and related commercial, contractual and regulatory frameworks.
• Ability to think strategically while driving practical execution.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior executives, retailer principals and investors.
• Strong understanding of premium customer expectations and the drivers of customer satisfaction.
• Highly organized, proactive and adaptable mindset, with a passion for collaboration, continuous improvement and innovation.
• Fluency in Italian and English, both written and spoken.