Managing Director

Technical Placements Ltd; City Of London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company in the UK is seeking a Managing Director to lead its operations and drive strategic growth. This role demands a successful track record in managing SMEs and strong commercial skills across sales and marketing. The Managing Director will oversee a team, ensure compliance with regulations, and develop long-term strategies alongside a dedicated management team. The position in East Kent offers a unique opportunity to enhance a strong business in a supportive environment, with the potential for occasional travel across the UK and Europe.

Qualifications

• Experience managing a high-performing management team.
• Proven ability to develop and execute long term strategic plans.
• Ability to drive profitability and manage budgets.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and mentor a high-performing management team.
• Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure compliance.
• Identify and pursue growth opportunities and new markets.

Skills

Successful track record running or managing an SME

Strong commercial skills across Sales and Marketing

Broad understanding of Finance, Operations, Accountancy, and HR

Solid technical awareness / skills suited to the industry

Experience overseeing Health & Safety

Drive and capability to enhance an already strong business

Relevant qualifications

International experience

Job description

Managing Director opportunity with an electro-mechanical product manufacturing company based in East Kent. Established for nearly 100 years, this small but globally reaching business designs and manufactures innovative high quality testing equipment for industry (construction, marine, power, oil & gas etc).

Due to the incumbent's intended retirement, this is a special opportunity to manage a great team of people, offering exciting prospects with this highly successful business.

Role Purpose

Reporting to the Board of a long-term family owned group of companies, leading a team of 5 direct reports and 18 wider staff, the Managing Director will lead the business into its next phase of growth. You will have full responsibility for company performance - including P&L, operations, Health & Safety, legal compliance, and strategic direction - supported by a strong senior management team, the board, and external advisors.

The Candidate

• Successful track record running or managing an SME.
• Broad understanding of Finance, Operations, Accountancy, and HR.
• Strong commercial skills across Sales and Marketing.
• Experience overseeing Health & Safety.
• Solid technical awareness / skills suited to the industry.
• Right to live and work in the UK.
• Drive and capability to enhance an already strong business.
• Relevant qualifications.
• International experience.

Managing Director Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Lead, develop, and mentor a high-performing management team.
• Build a culture of accountability, quality, and collaboration.
• Ensure full compliance with safety, environmental, and industry regulations.

Strategy

• Develop and execute the company's long-term strategic plan.
• Align all departments with business objectives and policies.
• Represent the company at key industry events and partnerships.

Operations

• Oversee day-to-day operations across all departments.
• Manage budgets and financial performance to drive profitability.
• Champion cost efficiency, continuous improvement, and KPI delivery.
• Implement clear processes and operational standards.

Business Development

• Identify and pursue growth opportunities and new markets.
• Drive New Product Development initiatives.
• Ensure the organisation is well resourced and future‑ready, including recruitment and training.

Hands‑On Approach

• As a small business, they value leaders who take ownership, show energy, and “roll up their sleeves” when needed.

Travel

Occasional short trips in the UK and Europe, potentially beyond.

Our client is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified and experienced individuals.

If you would like to learn more about this unique opportunity, please apply or contact Tim Hill at Technical Placements Ltd for an initial chat about the role.