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Sample Coordinator

Karsten International

Amsterdam
Full-time
2-5 years experience
On-site

Key Skills

Sample Handling
Inventory Management
Sample Tracking
Warehouse and Logistics Processes
Organization
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Problem-Solving
Communication
Cross-Department Coordination
Excel
Vendor Portal
Shipment Monitoring
Quality Inspection
Showroom Management
Physical Package Handling

Job Description

Job Description We are looking for a highly organized and proactive Sample Coordinator to join our team. In this role, you are responsible for the day-to-day handling and movement of product samples across the organization. You make sure samples are received, unpacked, sorted, stored, and placed in the right location at the right time, so that teams across Buying, PJM, Sales, Quality, and Sourcing can easily access what they need. This is a very hands-on role in which you are actively working with samples throughout the day, including lifting, moving, unpacking boxes, organizing storage areas, and maintaining the showroom and sample spaces. A large part of your work is physical and operational, combined with keeping basic tracking and administration accurate and up to date. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys structure, is practical and hands-on, and takes ownership of keeping the sample flow organized and running smoothly. Job overview: Administration & Coordination Track sample status updates for all PJM projects in Vendor Portal. Maintain accurate records of sample movements, storage locations, and project clean-up activities. Act as the main point of contact between departments regarding sample management and logistics. Approve monthly shipping invoices/payments received from Finance. Support onboarding of new employees regarding sample processes and storage procedures. Monitor and follow up on FedEx shipments. Register and manage photography samples. Receive, organise, rotate all inbound samples (PP, MP, QIMA, Photography, and Sourcing samples). Ensure that all samples are inspected for quality before storage or shipment, and that any defective or outdated samples are discarded or flagged. Record and physically manage QIMA samples and coordinate project sample clean-up with PJMs and Buyers. Storage, Showroom & Inventory Management Prepare, pack, and dispatch samples for Buying/PJM/Sales departments. Coordinate Active Ants and De Zwaluw sample shipments. Organise and coordinate the monthly Opkoper (reseller) collection. Manage the showroom, including organisation, cleanliness, maintenance, and restocking. Manage external storage facilities and maintain sample inventories. Order and maintain packaging materials and supplies. Support the Quality team with sample disposal, lab organisation, and general housekeeping activities. Regularly review and dispose of samples together with Buyers and PJMs. Job Requirements Requirements: MBO education in Business, Logistics, or similar is a plus. 2–3 years’ experience in inventory, sample handling, or related roles. Strong organizational skills; detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks. Familiar with inventory systems; Excel knowledge is a plus. Knowledge Understanding of inventory/sample tracking best practices and basic warehouse/logistics processes. Eager to improve and structure sample management processes. Key Competencies High attention to detail and accuracy. Strong time management and problem-solving skills. Good communication and teamwork across departments. Physical Requirements Able to lift and move packages. Comfortable standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods. Who we are? Karsten International develops a wide range of products for daily use, from the latest gadgets to sustainable beauty products. You name it, we make it. In addition to working hard and delivering quality, enjoyment and collegiality are our top priorities. The team consists of driven product developers, sales experts, logistics talents, online marketing specialists and graphic designers. Thanks to a broad international network and more than ten years of experience, we are winning the hearts of consumers all over the world with our products. You will be given every opportunity to contribute to this. What you can expect from us: At Karsten International you will join a supportive, ambitious team where we work hard, stay sharp, and enjoy what we do. We are growing fast, so there’s plenty of room to share ideas, take ownership, and really make an impact. We communicate openly, help each other out, and keep things direct but respectful. What we offer: Plenty of space for personal growth, ownership and continuous improvement Excellent pension scheme Travel allowance or OV card, 13th month & 8% holiday pay Daily fresh lunch, fruit, and great coffee Bootcamp, yoga, football team Option to lease a bike OpenUp for mental well-being + massage at the office Discounts on great products & fun company outings Easily accessible office in Amsterdam Support with HSM visa and 30% ruling (if applicable) Our core values (woven into how we work together): Efficient & cost-conscious: We manage time and resources smartly, think critically and value what’s already in place. Ambitious with long-term focus: We take ownership, build lasting relationships and stay humble in our success. Striving for the best: We measure, learn, improve—and challenge each other to exceed expectations. Direct & respectful: We communicate openly and treat everyone with respect, regardless of background. We like to have fun: We enjoy what we do and create a positive, energetic work environment.

Core Responsibilities

Manage the receipt, inspection, tracking, storage, movement, and disposal of product samples, maintaining accurate records and coordinating sample needs across departments. Prepare and dispatch samples, oversee showroom and external storage inventories, monitor shipments and invoices, and support related housekeeping and onboarding activities.

Requirements

The role seeks 2–3 years of experience in inventory, sample handling, or a related field, with strong organizational, communication, time-management, and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with inventory systems and basic warehouse and logistics processes is expected; an MBO qualification in business, logistics, or a similar field is a plus, as is Excel knowledge.

Benefits

  • Pension Scheme
  • Travel Allowance or Public Transport Card
  • 13th-Month Salary
  • Holiday Pay
  • Daily Lunch, Fruit, and Coffee
  • Bootcamp, Yoga, and Football Team
  • Bike Leasing Option
  • Mental Well-Being Support and Office Massage
  • Product Discounts
  • Company Outings
  • Visa and 30% Tax Ruling Support, If Applicable

About Karsten International

Industry: Manufacturing

Company size: 51-200 employees

At Karsten International, we aim to create products and brands that make life smarter, healthier and sustainable. We accomplish this by combining over ten years of knowledge and experience, with a talented and ambitious team specialized in logistics, product & brand development, private labeling, e-commerce and after-sales. As a full-service provider we remove thresholds. This can concern handling logistics, taking care of financial concerns, or providing additional services beneficial to the product's life cycle. We can do this for your private label or for one of our independent brands. Whether you are a manufacturer seeking new opportunities within the competitive European market or a retailer searching for best value consumer products, we can bridge that gap with you by delivering tailor-made solutions. Karsten International is a Dutch scale-up located in the center of Amsterdam.

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