Head of International Distribution

About FuegoFuego is redefining footwear built for dance, athletics, and streetwear — where style, performance, and comfort meet in every step. Born out of dance culture and forged on dance floors around the world, Fuego has grown into a global lifestyle brand, sold direct-to-consumer and through select retailers in 120+ countries.The RoleWe're looking for a Head of Distribution in Europe to build and lead Fuego's distributor network across the region. This is a deal-making, relationship-building role — you'll identify the right retail and distribution partners in key markets (UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and beyond), negotiate and structure agreements, and drive sustainable, profitable growth.You'll work closely with the CEO, Sales, and Product team to ensure distribution strategy aligns with brand positioning, product assortment, and pricing — and you'll be the face of Fuego to partners across Europe.This role is open to candidates based across Europe.What You'll DoDevelop and execute Fuego's European distribution strategy, with a roadmap for sequencing and expansion across priority markets over timeLead outreach, pitch, and negotiation with prospective distributors — from first contact through signed agreementStructure commercial terms including minimum order quantities, pricing/margin structures, territory rights, marketing co-investment, and performance targetsNavigate EU-specific considerations: customs and duty structures, compliance, and local regulatory or certification requirementsSupport distribution planning as Fuego expands beyond footwear into apparel and accessories, ensuring partners can grow with the brand across categories over timeWhat You Bring7+ years of experience in international sales, business development, or distributor management in footwear or apparel, with a focus on European marketsProven track record structuring and closing distribution/partnership agreements with European retailers or distributorsDeep understanding of wholesale/distribution economics — margin structures, MOQs, terms, exclusivity, and territory managementStrong commercial instincts paired with the discipline to protect brand positioning and long-term partner quality over short-term volumeWillingness and ability to travel across Europe on a regular basisExcellent written and verbal communication skills; fluency in a second European language (German, French, Spanish, or Italian) is a strong plusNice to HaveExisting relationships with sneaker, streetwear, athletic, or lifestyle footwear distributors/retailersExperience launching a footwear or apparel brand into the European market from scratchFamiliarity with EU consumer protection, labeling, or product certification requirements for footwear/apparelBackground working alongside a lean, founder-led team where you'll build process as you go