Managing Director – Food Manufacturing

Taylor Higson; Park Central; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected UK food manufacturer is seeking an accomplished Managing Director to lead operational transformation and growth. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership in food manufacturing, strong financial acumen, and a track record of driving measurable growth. This role offers a six-figure base salary, performance bonus, and executive-level benefits, providing the autonomy to shape strategic direction and operational excellence.

Benefits

Performance bonus

Executive benefits package

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in food manufacturing or FMCG.
• Deep understanding of food production and commercial operations.
• Strong financial and strategic acumen with measurable growth.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction across operational and commercial functions.
• Develop a long-term business strategy focused on growth.
• Oversee supply chain and production operations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic direction

Operational management

Cross-functional team leadership

Financial acumen

Education

Degree in Business, Engineering or Supply Chain

Tools

CIPS

Lean Six Sigma

Job description

Managing Director – Food Manufacturing

Location: Birmingham (National remit)
Salary: Six-figure package bonus executive benefits

A long-established and highly respected UK food manufacturer is seeking an accomplished Managing Director to lead its next phase of growth and operational transformation.

Renowned for quality craftsmanship and supplying both retail and B2B markets, this business has built an enviable reputation within the confectionery and food manufacturing sector. As the business continues to expand its footprint and capabilities, it now requires a commercially astute and operationally driven leader to take full responsibility for strategic and day-to-day performance.

The Role

• Provide clear strategic direction and leadership across all operational, manufacturing, and commercial functions.
• Develop and execute a long-term business strategy focused on growth, efficiency, and profitability.
• Oversee end-to-end supply chain, logistics, procurement, and production operations.
• Drive improvements in productivity, sustainability, and cost efficiency while maintaining premium product standards.
• Lead and inspire cross-functional teams, embedding a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Build strong supplier and customer relationships, ensuring operational resilience and service excellence.
• Manage full P&L responsibility, delivering consistent EBITDA growth and operational margin improvement.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Represent the business externally with customers, partners, and industry stakeholders.

About You

• Proven leadership experience as a Managing Director, Operations Director, or General Manager within food manufacturing or FMCG.
• Deep understanding of large-scale food production, supply chain, and commercial operations.
• Strong financial and strategic acumen with a history of delivering measurable growth.
• A hands-on leader able to balance strategic direction with day-to-day operational oversight.
• Track record in building cohesive, high-performing teams and leading business transformation.
• Degree educated (Business, Engineering, or Supply Chain) – CIPS, Lean Six Sigma or equivalent qualifications are advantageous.

The Opportunity

This is a rare chance to join a heritage British food manufacturer entering an exciting phase of evolution and investment.

You’ll be given full autonomy to shape the strategic direction of the business, lead operational excellence across the supply chain, and drive sustainable growth in a competitive market.

A six-figure base salary, performance bonus, and executive-level benefits package are available for the right individual.