Managing Director

Desmet; Kingston upon Hull; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic leader to drive business growth and operational excellence in Kingston upon Hull. This pivotal role involves developing comprehensive business strategies, overseeing financial performance, and leading a high-performing team. The successful candidate will foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation while ensuring customer satisfaction and compliance with regulations. With opportunities for international engagement and a focus on talent development, this position is ideal for someone passionate about making a significant impact in a thriving organization. Join a forward-thinking company that values leadership and strategic vision.

Qualifications

• 15 years of experience in sales, engineering, or manufacturing.
• 5 years in senior leadership roles required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement business plans aligned with growth objectives.
• Drive profitability and oversee financial performance.
• Lead talent development and foster a culture of innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Problem-Solving

Financial Metrics

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Abilities

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Fluency in English

German Language Skills

Education

Master's Degree in Business Administration

Master's Degree in Engineering

MBA or Equivalent Executive Education

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

KEY Accountabilities

Business Leadership

• Develop and implement comprehensive business plans and strategies that align with sustainable growth objectives and Desmet purpose and guiding principles and strategies.
• Oversee the governance of operations in the UK, Germany and in the U.S., ensuring reaching the financial targets (order intake, profitability) while maintaining customer satisfaction and compliance with corporate policies, export control and local laws, legal and industry regulations.
• Monitor and develop the Hub financial performance, budgets, forecasts, and financial plans.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and lead CI initiatives and best practices.

Sales and Business Development

• Drive the business profitability, accountable for the P&L, order intake (OR), net invoicing (NI) and return on sales (ROS).
• Plan and lead the sales and business development strategy.
• Develop and lead sales strategies to penetrate new markets and enhance customer relationships.
• Monitor competition, market trends, needs and challenges to identify opportunities for growth.
• Foster a customer−centric culture to ensure high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Oversee and participate in marketing activities including exhibitions, customer events, etc.

Manufacturing

• Foster a safety−first culture and lead H&S improvement initiatives.
• Oversee the manufacturing operations to ensure high efficiency, quality, and cost−effectiveness.
• Ensure the production efficiency in quality and quantity: on−time delivery, stock, procurement, lead times, rolling forecasts.
• Review the CAPEX program and ensure its timely and efficient implementation.

Engineering

• Ensure & drive the timely execution of projects.
• Lead product development and innovation projects together with sales and Desmet R&D team.
• Drive engineering activities, resources and systems enhancement.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and meetings.
• Providing regular updates on company performance and strategic initiatives to Desmet leadership.

Talent Development

• Foster a culture of communication, collaboration and innovation within the organization.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high−performing senior management team.
• Develop local successors for key positions and beyond.
• Promote a positive and inclusive work environment that attracts and retains top talent.
• Promote a culture of learning, empowerment, quality and productivity.

Required Profile

Required Education / Experience

• 15 years of experience in sales, and engineering or manufacturing.
• 5 years of successful experience in senior leadership roles.
• Master's degree in business administration or engineering.

Preferred Education/Experience

• MBA or equivalent executive education.
• Excellent track record in leading others.
• International or multi-country experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Result driven leadership.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Financial metrics of a production environment.
• Pragmatism and pro-activeness.
• Superior communication skills and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Fluent in English is a must, German an asset.

LOCATION & TRAVEL

• The role is based in Kingston-Upon-Hull, UK and includes
• Regular travel to Germany and frequent travel to customers.