Managing Director – electro-mechanical products

Technical Placements; England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company is seeking a Managing Director to lead operations and drive growth at their Kent-based facility. This role requires a candidate with a successful track record in managing SMEs, strong commercial acumen, and relevant qualifications. The Managing Director will oversee P&L, lead a team, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. This unique opportunity offers a chance to shape the company's future while being supported by a skilled team. The position requires occasional travel within the UK and Europe.

Qualifications

• Broad understanding of Finance, Operations, Accountancy, and HR.
• Right to live and work in the UK.
• International experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing management team.
• Develop long-term strategic plans.
• Oversee day-to-day operations.
• Identify and pursue growth opportunities.

Skills

Successful track record running or managing an SME

Strong commercial skills across Sales and Marketing

Experience overseeing Health & Safety

Solid technical awareness

Drive to enhance a strong business

Education

Relevant qualifications

Job description

Overview

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 welcome 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.