Hire E-commerce Operations Manager in Belgium: The Complete Guide for Global Employers

Why Global Companies Hire E-commerce Operations Managers from Belgium

Belgium offers a unique strategic advantage for companies seeking to enhance their e-commerce operations across Europe. Here’s why many global organizations are turning to Belgian talent for e-commerce operations management:

• Strategic Geographic Position: Belgium sits at the crossroads of Western Europe’s major markets (Germany, France, Netherlands, UK), making it an ideal location for managing pan-European e-commerce operations and logistics.
• Multilingual Capabilities: Belgian professionals typically speak three or more languages fluently (Dutch, French, English, and often German), enabling seamless communication with diverse European markets and teams.
• Advanced Logistics Expertise: With Europe’s second-largest port (Antwerp) and extensive transportation networks, Belgian e-commerce managers possess exceptional logistics and supply chain knowledge crucial for e-commerce success.
• Strong Digital Infrastructure: Belgium boasts high internet penetration, advanced digital payment systems, and robust IT infrastructure, fostering professionals with cutting-edge e-commerce technical knowledge.
• EU Regulatory Understanding: Belgian professionals have deep familiarity with EU e-commerce regulations, GDPR, consumer protection laws, and cross-border trade requirements essential for European market operations.

Who Should Consider Hiring Belgium E-commerce Operations Managers

Several types of organizations can benefit significantly from hiring e-commerce operations talent from Belgium:

• International Retailers Expanding into Europe: Companies looking to establish or strengthen their European e-commerce presence can leverage Belgian managers’ regional expertise and multilingual capabilities.
• E-commerce Businesses Optimizing Supply Chains: Organizations seeking to improve their European logistics, warehousing, and fulfillment operations benefit from Belgium’s strategic position and logistics infrastructure knowledge.
• Digital Marketplaces Requiring Multi-Country Management: Platform businesses operating across multiple European markets need managers who understand diverse customer expectations and regulatory environments.
• Direct-to-Consumer Brands Entering European Markets: D2C brands can benefit from Belgian expertise in navigating Europe’s complex VAT systems, shipping regulations, and consumer preferences.
• Companies Implementing Omnichannel Strategies: Businesses integrating online and offline experiences across European markets need operations managers who understand regional retail landscapes and digital transformation.

Key Skills and Specializations for E-commerce Operations Managers

E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium typically possess a diverse range of specialized skills that make them valuable assets for global organizations:

Core Operational Skills

• End-to-end e-commerce platform management
• Order fulfillment and inventory management
• Supply chain optimization and logistics coordination
• Payment processing systems integration
• Customer service operations management
• Returns and reverse logistics management

Technical Competencies

• E-commerce platform expertise (Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, etc.)
• ERP system integration (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Data analytics and business intelligence tools
• Warehouse management systems (WMS)
• Order management systems (OMS)
• CRM system implementation and management

Specialization Areas

Experience Levels of Belgium E-commerce Operations Managers

E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium typically fall into several distinct career stages, each offering different levels of expertise and capabilities:

Entry-Level (1-3 years)

These professionals are typically newer to operations management but have solid foundational skills:

• Often hold bachelor’s degrees in business, supply chain management, or related fields
• Have experience with basic e-commerce platforms and operational processes
• Can manage day-to-day operational tasks with supervision
• Typically oversee specific functional areas rather than entire operations
• Possess good problem-solving skills for routine operational challenges

Mid-Level (4-7 years)

Mid-level managers bring deeper experience and can handle greater responsibility:

• Often hold advanced degrees or specialized e-commerce certifications
• Have managed multiple e-commerce platforms and integrated systems
• Can independently oversee entire operational workflows
• Possess experience optimizing processes and implementing improvements
• Have developed team leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Demonstrate strong analytical capabilities for data-driven decision making

Senior-Level (8+ years)

Senior managers bring comprehensive expertise and strategic leadership:

• Extensive experience managing complex e-commerce operations across multiple markets
• Strategic perspective connecting operations to overall business objectives
• Proven record of scaling operations and leading transformation initiatives
• Deep expertise in multiple e-commerce systems and integration approaches
• Strong leadership skills for building and developing high-performing teams
• Experience managing substantial operational budgets and resource allocation
• Ability to develop innovative solutions for complex operational challenges

Director/Head of E-commerce Operations (10+ years)

At the highest level, these leaders bring executive-level perspective:

• Extensive experience designing and implementing e-commerce strategies
• Proven success scaling operations across multiple markets or business units
• Executive-level communication and stakeholder management skills
• Experience with substantial digital transformation and change management
• Strategic vision for long-term operational excellence and innovation

Hiring Models to Choose From

When hiring E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium, companies can select from several employment models, each with unique advantages and considerations:

Making the Right Choice

When selecting a hiring model, consider factors including:

• Timeline for bringing operations managers on board
• Duration of need (temporary vs. permanent)
• Budget constraints and cost structure preferences
• Compliance risk tolerance
• Degree of team integration required
• Future expansion plans in Belgium

How to Legally Hire E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium

Hiring e-commerce talent in Belgium requires navigating specific legal frameworks. Companies have two primary options for legal employment: establishing a Belgian entity or utilizing an Employer of Record service.

Option 1: Establishing a Legal Entity in Belgium

Setting up a Belgian legal entity involves:

• Choosing an appropriate business structure (BVBA/SRL, SA/NV, etc.)
• Registering with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE/BCE)
• Obtaining necessary business licenses and VAT registration
• Registering with social security authorities (ONSS/RSZ)
• Setting up a Belgian bank account and payroll system
• Implementing compliant employment contracts and policies
• Establishing ongoing tax filing and compliance processes

Option 2: Using an Employer of Record (EOR)

Alternatively, companies can partner with an Employer of Record service like Asanify to outsource work to Belgium, which handles all employment-related responsibilities while allowing you to manage your operations manager’s day-to-day work.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium

Step 1: Define Your Requirements

Start with a clear definition of the role:

• Specific operational areas to be managed (inventory, fulfillment, customer service, etc.)
• Required technical skills and platform experience
• Language requirements (Dutch, French, English, others)
• Experience level and industry background
• Team management responsibilities
• Performance metrics and expected outcomes

Step 2: Choose Your Hiring Model

Based on your timeline, budget, and long-term plans, select the most appropriate hiring model:

• Direct employment through a Belgian entity
• Employer of Record service
• Professional contractor arrangement
• Staff augmentation through agencies
• Consulting firm engagement

Step 3: Source Qualified Candidates

Tap into effective channels to find Belgian e-commerce operations talent:

• Specialized e-commerce and retail job boards (StepStone, LinkedIn)
• Belgian e-commerce associations and networks
• Industry events and e-commerce conferences
• Universities with e-commerce and supply chain programs
• Specialized recruitment agencies focused on e-commerce and digital roles
• Professional LinkedIn groups for Belgian e-commerce professionals

Step 4: Evaluate and Select

Implement a thorough assessment process:

• Resume screening for relevant platform experience and operational accomplishments
• Initial interviews focusing on e-commerce technical knowledge
• Case studies or practical assessments of operational problem-solving
• Evaluations of data analysis and process optimization capabilities
• Reference checks with previous employers
• Final interviews with key stakeholders

Step 5: Onboard Effectively

Create a smooth transition into your organization:

• Develop a structured onboarding plan with clear milestones
• Provide access to necessary systems, tools, and documentation
• Schedule introductions with key team members and stakeholders
• Establish clear expectations and initial objectives
• Implement regular check-ins during the initial period

For seamless onboarding of your e-commerce operations talent, consider utilizing Asanify’s proven remote onboarding processes, which ensure compliance while creating a positive employee experience.

Salary Benchmarks

E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium command competitive salaries that vary based on experience, specialization, and company size. The following table provides salary benchmarks for 2025:

Important Compensation Considerations

• Employer Costs: Employers should budget an additional 30-35% for mandatory social security contributions and benefits.
• 13th Month Salary: Many sectors in Belgium provide a 13th month payment as standard practice.
• Regional Variations: Salaries tend to be higher in Brussels compared to other Belgian regions.
• Industry Factors: Luxury retail, technology, and pharmaceutical e-commerce operations often offer premium compensation.
• Remote Work Premium: Roles with flexible or fully remote arrangements may command 5-10% higher salaries.

What Skills to Look for When Hiring E-commerce Operations Managers

Technical Skills

• E-commerce Platform Expertise: Proficiency with major platforms (Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, SAP Commerce Cloud)
• Inventory Management: Experience with inventory forecasting, stock level optimization, and multi-warehouse management
• Order Management Systems: Knowledge of OMS implementation, optimization, and integration
• Logistics Coordination: Understanding of shipping methods, carrier management, and fulfillment workflows
• Data Analytics: Ability to analyze operational KPIs and implement data-driven improvements
• ERP System Knowledge: Experience with enterprise resource planning systems and their integration with e-commerce
• Process Automation: Skills in identifying and implementing automation opportunities in operational workflows

Business and Management Skills

• Project Management: Ability to plan, execute, and oversee complex operational projects
• Team Leadership: Experience managing and developing operational teams
• Financial Acumen: Understanding of operational budgeting, cost management, and financial performance metrics
• Vendor Management: Skills in selecting, negotiating with, and managing service providers and partners
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with marketing, sales, IT, and customer service teams
• Change Management: Experience guiding teams through operational transformations and system migrations

Soft Skills and Attributes

• Problem-solving: Exceptional ability to troubleshoot operational issues and develop sustainable solutions
• Adaptability: Comfort with rapidly changing e-commerce environments and technologies
• Customer-centric Mindset: Focus on how operational decisions impact the customer experience
• Communication Skills: Clear, effective communication across different organizational levels
• Detail Orientation: Strong attention to detail while maintaining strategic perspective
• Multi-tasking Abilities: Capacity to manage multiple operational priorities simultaneously
• Continuous Improvement Orientation: Proactive identification of optimization opportunities

Belgium-Specific Skills

• Multilingual Capabilities: Proficiency in Dutch, French, and English for seamless communication
• EU Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with European e-commerce regulations, VAT requirements, and GDPR
• Cross-border Trade Experience: Understanding of EU customs, shipping regulations, and international trade
• Cultural Awareness: Sensitivity to Belgian and broader European consumer expectations

Legal and Compliance Considerations

Hiring E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium requires adherence to specific employment laws and regulations. Understanding these requirements is essential for compliance and effective talent management.

Employment Contracts

• Written Agreements: Belgian law requires detailed written contracts specifying role, compensation, working hours, and other terms.
• Contract Types: Options include indefinite-term (most common), fixed-term, or specific project contracts.
• Language Requirements: Contracts must be in the official language of the region (Dutch in Flanders, French in Wallonia, either in Brussels).
• Probation Periods: Since 2014, formal probationary periods are no longer permitted in Belgian employment contracts.

Working Time and Leave

• Standard Working Hours: 38-hour workweek is standard, with strict rules on overtime compensation.
• Annual Leave: Minimum 20 working days plus approximately 10 public holidays annually.
• Special Leave: Additional leave for life events (marriage, birth, bereavement) is legally mandated.
• Sick Leave: Employers must guarantee salary continuation during initial period of illness.

Compensation and Benefits

• Minimum Salary: Many sectors have collective bargaining agreements setting minimum compensation levels.
• 13th Month Pay: Annual end-of-year premium is standard in most sectors.
• Indexation: Salaries are typically automatically adjusted for inflation based on the health index.
• Mandatory Benefits: Include social security contributions, holiday pay, and often meal vouchers.

Termination Regulations

• Notice Periods: Legally defined notice periods based on seniority, ranging from weeks to over a year.
• Termination Procedures: Specific notification requirements must be followed precisely.
• Severance Pay: May be required depending on circumstances and employment duration.
• Protected Categories: Special protections for pregnant employees, union representatives, and others.

Navigating these complex requirements can be challenging for foreign employers. Understanding Belgium’s labour laws is essential for compliance. Working with an Employer of Record like Asanify ensures all legal requirements are met while reducing administrative burden and compliance risks.

Common Challenges Global Employers Face

Hiring and managing E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium presents several challenges that global employers should anticipate and address:

Complex Employment Regulations

• Belgium has some of Europe’s most protective employment laws, with stringent requirements around contracts, termination, and benefits.
• Collective bargaining agreements apply to many sectors, adding another layer of compliance requirements.
• Different language requirements for official documentation depending on the region (Dutch in Flanders, French in Wallonia).
• Automatic salary indexation systems that may be unfamiliar to international employers.

High Employment Costs

• Employer social security contributions add approximately 30-35% to gross salary costs.
• Mandatory benefits such as 13th month salary, double holiday pay, and meal vouchers increase total compensation.
• Additional costs for company cars or mobility allowances, which are standard expectations for managerial roles.
• Significant termination costs due to lengthy notice periods or severance requirements.

Talent Competition

• High demand for experienced e-commerce operations talent across European markets.
• Competition from major EU institutions and multinational headquarters in Brussels.
• Limited pool of candidates with specialized e-commerce operations expertise and multilingual capabilities.
• Salary expectations driven upward by demand and Belgium’s high cost of living.

Cultural Work Expectations

• Strong work-life balance culture that may differ from expectations in other countries.
• Consensus-driven decision making that can be more deliberate than in some other business cultures.
• Hierarchical structures that are less rigid than in some countries but more formal than others.
• Communication styles that vary between Belgium’s different linguistic communities.

Remote Management Difficulties

• Challenges in integrating remote Belgian employees into global operational teams.
• Time zone differences that may complicate real-time collaboration with teams in other regions.
• Technical and compliance considerations for remote work arrangements.
• Building trust and effective communication across cultural and language differences.

Many global companies overcome these challenges by partnering with an Employer of Record like Asanify. This approach enables employers to focus on leveraging their Belgian e-commerce talent’s expertise while the EOR handles the complex compliance and administrative requirements.

Best Practices for Managing Remote E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium

Successfully managing remote E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium requires thoughtful approaches that respect local work culture while maintaining operational excellence:

Effective Communication Strategies

• Structured Check-ins: Implement regular 1:1 meetings and team sessions with clear agendas and action items
• Communication Tools: Utilize collaborative platforms that support both synchronous and asynchronous communication
• Documentation: Maintain accessible, up-to-date documentation for processes, decisions, and operational standards
• Language Consideration: Confirm preferred communication language (Dutch, French, or English) and respect language choices
• Time Zone Management: Schedule key meetings during overlapping hours and record important sessions for asynchronous review

Performance Management

• Clear Objectives: Establish specific, measurable operational KPIs aligned with business goals
• Regular Feedback: Provide ongoing input rather than relying solely on formal reviews
• Data Visibility: Ensure access to relevant operational metrics and performance dashboards
• Recognition: Acknowledge achievements and operational improvements promptly
• OKR Implementation: Consider using Objectives and Key Results frameworks to align operational goals

Team Integration

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Create opportunities for interaction with other departments and regions
• Virtual Team Building: Schedule online social activities that respect time zones and cultural preferences
• Company Culture: Actively include remote team members in organizational culture initiatives
• Mentorship: Connect Belgian operations managers with global counterparts for knowledge sharing
• Periodic In-Person Meetings: When possible, arrange face-to-face team sessions or conferences

Tools and Technology

• Collaboration Platforms: Implement robust project management and collaboration tools
• Process Visualization: Use workflow mapping tools to clarify operational processes
• Data Access: Ensure secure, reliable access to necessary operational systems and dashboards
• Documentation Repository: Maintain centralized knowledge bases for operational procedures
• Hardware Support: Provide appropriate equipment or stipends for home office setup

Work-Life Balance Consideration

• Respect Working Hours: Honor Belgian standard working times and avoid scheduling meetings outside these hours
• Vacation Planning: Accommodate Belgian holiday patterns, including summer slowdown periods
• Right to Disconnect: Support disconnection after working hours and during leave periods
• Workload Management: Monitor for signs of overwork and adjust responsibilities accordingly
• Flexibility: Allow for schedule adjustments to accommodate personal needs when possible

Professional Development

• Learning Opportunities: Provide access to training on emerging e-commerce technologies and best practices
• Career Pathing: Create clear advancement opportunities for remote team members
• Industry Connections: Support participation in relevant Belgian and European e-commerce networks
• Knowledge Sharing: Create forums for exchanging operational insights across markets

Why Use Asanify to Hire E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium

Asanify provides a comprehensive Employer of Record (EOR) solution that simplifies hiring and managing E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium while ensuring full compliance and exceptional employee experience.

Streamlined Hiring Process

• Rapid Deployment: Hire Belgian e-commerce talent in days rather than the months required for entity setup
• Compliant Contracts: Receive legally sound employment agreements tailored to e-commerce roles
• Simplified Onboarding: Manage digital document collection and verification through a single platform
• No Entity Required: Bypass the complexity and cost of establishing a Belgian legal entity

Complete Compliance Management

• Expert Guidance: Navigate Belgium’s complex employment regulations with confidence
• Regulatory Updates: Stay current with changes to Belgian labor laws affecting e-commerce operations
• Risk Mitigation: Avoid costly misclassification issues and compliance penalties
• Documentation Management: Maintain required employment records per Belgian regulations

Comprehensive Employment Administration

• Payroll Processing: Handle complex Belgian payroll requirements including indexation and special premiums
• Benefits Administration: Manage mandatory and competitive benefits packages
• Tax and Social Security: Ensure accurate withholding and contributions
• Time and Leave Management: Track working hours and leave entitlements per Belgian regulations
• Expense Management: Process business expenses and reimbursements compliantly

Enhanced Employee Experience

• Local HR Support: Provide Belgian e-commerce managers with dedicated HR assistance in their language
• Competitive Packages: Offer market-appropriate compensation based on current benchmarks
• Self-Service Portal: Give employees easy access to pay information, documents, and requests
• Cultural Insights: Receive guidance on Belgian workplace expectations and norms

Operational Efficiency

• Single Dashboard: Manage all aspects of employment through a unified interface
• Automated Workflows: Streamline approvals, documentation, and administrative processes
• Cost Predictability: Understand total employment costs with transparent pricing
• Scalability: Easily adjust team size as your e-commerce operations evolve

Strategic Partnership

• Hiring Guidance: Receive insights on competitive packages for e-commerce operations roles
• Performance Management: Implement effective review and development processes
• Global Expansion Support: Scale your e-commerce team across multiple markets with a single partner
• Ongoing Consultation: Access expertise on evolving best practices for managing remote operations teams

With Asanify as your Employer of Record, you can focus on leveraging your Belgian e-commerce operations talent to drive business growth while we handle the complex employment administration and compliance requirements.

FAQs: Hiring E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium

What qualifications should I look for in a Belgian E-commerce Operations Manager?

Look for candidates with degrees in business management, supply chain, or e-commerce specializations. Valuable certifications include project management credentials (PMP, Prince2), e-commerce platform certifications (Shopify, Magento), and supply chain qualifications. Ideal candidates combine technical platform knowledge with process optimization experience and multilingual capabilities (Dutch, French, English).

How much does it cost to hire an E-commerce Operations Manager in Belgium?

Annual gross salaries range from €45,000-55,000 for entry-level managers to €75,000-95,000 for senior professionals, with directors commanding €95,000-130,000+. The total employment cost will be 30-35% higher due to employer social security contributions. Using an EOR service adds a service fee typically between 8-15% of the employee’s salary.

What are the mandatory benefits for employees in Belgium?

Belgian employees are entitled to at least 20 days of paid vacation plus approximately 10 public holidays, a 13th month salary in most sectors, sick leave coverage, and often meal vouchers (€8+ per day). Additional standard benefits include transportation allowances, supplementary pension, and healthcare. Belgium’s leave policies are particularly comprehensive.

Can I hire E-commerce Operations Managers as contractors in Belgium?

While possible, Belgium has strict regulations distinguishing contractors from employees. Authorities actively investigate misclassification, with significant penalties for non-compliance. The ongoing, integrated nature of operations management often creates an employment relationship under Belgian standards. Using an EOR service provides a compliant alternative with similar flexibility.

How long does it take to hire an E-commerce Operations Manager in Belgium?

The recruitment process typically takes 4-8 weeks depending on seniority and specialization. Once selected, onboarding through an EOR like Asanify takes just days, compared to months if establishing your own entity. The timeline may extend during summer months (July-August) when hiring processes typically slow in Belgium.

What language requirements should I consider?

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flanders), French (Wallonia), and German (small eastern region). In Brussels, both Dutch and French are official. For e-commerce roles managing pan-European operations, English proficiency is essential. For roles involving local warehousing or customer service, fluency in the regional language is typically necessary. Many Belgian professionals are trilingual.

How does Belgian work culture differ from other countries?

Belgian work culture emphasizes work-life balance, punctuality, and formality in business relationships. Decision-making tends to be consensus-oriented and methodical. Belgians typically value clear hierarchies while maintaining relatively flat organizational structures. Communication styles may be more direct than in some cultures but less so than in neighboring Netherlands. Regional cultural differences exist between Flanders and Wallonia.

Can I hire E-commerce Operations Managers to work remotely from Belgium?

Yes, remote work is common in Belgium, particularly for digital roles like e-commerce operations. However, Belgian employment law still applies to remote workers, including working time regulations. An EOR like Asanify ensures compliance with Belgian remote work regulations while providing the necessary infrastructure and support for effective remote management.

What termination rules apply in Belgium if the arrangement doesn’t work out?

Belgium has strict termination rules with lengthy notice periods based on seniority. For white-collar workers, notice periods can range from several weeks to over a year. Immediate termination requires payment in lieu of notice. Specific procedures must be followed precisely. Working with an EOR like Asanify helps navigate these complex termination requirements legally and respectfully.

How can I ensure my Belgian E-commerce Operations Manager remains engaged and productive?

Focus on clear objectives, regular feedback, and professional development opportunities. Belgian professionals value work-life balance, autonomy in execution, and transparency in communication. Investing in appropriate tools, respecting working hours, and creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration with global teams helps maintain engagement and productivity.

What are the main advantages of using an Employer of Record like Asanify for hiring in Belgium?

An EOR eliminates the need to establish a legal entity, ensures full compliance with complex Belgian employment laws, handles all administrative burdens (payroll, benefits, taxes), and enables rapid hiring. Asanify specifically offers expertise in Belgium’s e-commerce sector, multilingual support, and integrated HR technology to simplify management of your operations talent.

How can I effectively manage performance for remote E-commerce Operations Managers?

Implement clear operational KPIs tied to business outcomes (order fulfillment rates, inventory accuracy, processing times). Establish regular check-ins focused on both results and process improvements. Provide necessary visibility into systems and data. Use collaborative tools to document workflows and decisions. Balance quantitative metrics with qualitative assessment of problem-solving and innovation.

Conclusion

Hiring E-commerce Operations Managers in Belgium offers substantial strategic advantages for global businesses looking to optimize their European operations. Belgian professionals bring valuable multilingual capabilities, deep understanding of European logistics networks, technical expertise in e-commerce platforms, and familiarity with EU regulations—all essential elements for successful cross-border online retail operations.

While navigating Belgium’s employment landscape presents certain challenges, including complex regulations and competitive compensation expectations, the value of accessing this specialized talent pool justifies the investment. By carefully considering the various hiring models available and implementing effective management practices, companies can successfully integrate Belgian e-commerce operations expertise into their global teams.

For organizations without an established presence in Belgium, partnering with an Employer of Record like Asanify offers the most efficient path to hiring and managing these professionals. This approach eliminates the need for entity establishment while ensuring full compliance with Belgian employment regulations and providing a positive experience for both employers and employees.

As e-commerce continues to evolve globally, having operations leaders who understand the nuances of European markets becomes increasingly valuable. Belgian E-commerce Operations Managers represent an ideal solution for companies seeking to enhance their operational capabilities across Europe’s diverse and dynamic online retail landscape.

Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant  or Labour Law  expert for specific guidance.