At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the company into its next growth phase and drive innovation.
- Company: Marine Guard is a market leader in security solutions for offshore assets and superyachts.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance bonuses, pension contributions, and life insurance.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a respected business with real heritage and global relevance.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations or commercial roles; leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: Inclusive environment celebrating diversity; applications welcome from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 Β£ per year.
Location: Southampton, Full-time in office
Reports to: Founder and CEO
Marine Guard, founded in 1998, has established itself as a market leader in the design, manufacture, and installation of security solutions for offshore asset protection, commercial shipping, and superyachts. Headquartered in Southampton, the business recently opened a new office and innovation centre where the leadership and R&D teams are continually working to meet the ever-changing demands of the industry. As a mature business with unrivalled experience in the superyacht sector, the next phase of growth requires a strong leader to drive diversification into new markets.
Role Overview
We are looking for a driven and commercially-minded leader to step into the role of Managing Director. This is a unique opportunity to take the reins of an established business and lead it into its next phase of growth and evolution. Youβll bring a renewed sense of pace and ambition to the team, unlock new market opportunities, and help shape a positive, accountable culture. You don't need to have held a Managing Director title before β you might be an experienced Head of Operations, Commercial Director, or similar leader ready to step up into full P&L ownership. This is a pivotal leadership role with real influence β an opportunity to shape strategy, lead a capable team, and deliver long-term value. The right candidate will be able to think fast and be confident, have the energy to tackle and overcome technical challenges in real time whilst spearheading a forward movement towards more streamlined processes and procedures.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership
- Shape and execute a clear, ambitious strategy for growth and innovation
- Identify new market opportunities, partnerships, and revenue channels
- Report performance, risks, and growth updates to the CEO
- Commercial & Financial Ownership
- Manage full P&L and own key performance metrics
- Drive improvements in margin, cost control, and operational efficiency to achieve financial targets
- Team & Culture Leadership
- Set clear priorities, KPIs, and rhythms for accountability for the team
- Build and maintain a culture of ownership, learning, and performance
- Inspire cultural alignment across the organisation
- Operational Excellence
- Oversee end-to-end business operations across product, marketing, sales, and customer experience
- Implement processes and systems for scalable growth
- External Relationships
- Represent the business with key external partners, investors, and stakeholders
- Build strategic relationships across the industry to unlock growth
- Be open to some international travel involving visiting existing projects, new clients, and trade shows
About You
You are likely to be:
- An experienced operator with a track record of driving results in a commercial, technical, or operational environment
- Energised by a challenge and motivated by turning potential into performance
- A hands-on leader who can switch between strategy and execution
- Commercially astute with a good grasp of financials and levers for growth
- Clear and confident communicator, able to lead through influence and example
- Someone who thrives on building strong teams and great culture
You may have experience as:
- Operations Director / General Manager / Commercial Director / COO β and now ready to step into a full leadership role
Bonus / Preferred Experience
- Sector experience in the Oil and Gas industry, Renewables, or the Public Sector
- Experience in leading transformation programmes, EBITDA improvement, and change management
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary + performance-based bonus
- 3% Pension Contribution
- Life insurance policy
- Income Protection policy
- Access to cycle to work scheme
Why join us
- Lead a respected business with real heritage and untapped potential
- Shape the future of the company in a high-trust, high-autonomy role
- Work alongside a committed team and supportive board
- Be part of an industry with global relevance and long-term need
Our process: To apply, please send your CV and Cover Letter to nikki.michelsen@marineguard.com. Please use the following format in the email title, βMD Role Application - First Name, Last Nameβ. The deadline for applications is the 14th of July. Screening interview led by our external hiring consultant. First round interview led by the Managing Director of EPIC, our sister company, Bertie Swayne. Short assessment task to assess your fit for the role. Final interview with the Founder and CEO of Ashenwood Group, Richard Webb.
We want to create an inclusive environment that celebrates the diversity of our people whilst enabling them to do the best work of their careers. We are committed to ensuring that all our people processes are equitable. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status, national origin, veteran, neurodiversity status or disability status.
Managing Director employer: LinkedIn
Contact Detail:
LinkedIn Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Managing Director
β¨Tip Number 1
Research Marine Guard thoroughly to understand their current market position and future goals. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and innovations, as this will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their growth.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with industry professionals who have experience in the oil and gas, renewables, or public sectors. Building connections can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within these markets, which you can leverage during your interviews.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven results in previous roles. Highlight your experience in managing P&L, leading teams, and implementing operational improvements, as these are key aspects of the Managing Director role.
β¨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your leadership style by preparing to share your vision for building a strong team culture. Think about how you can inspire accountability and performance, as this aligns closely with the expectations for the Managing Director position.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience that aligns with the responsibilities of a Managing Director. Focus on leadership roles, strategic initiatives you've led, and any experience in driving growth or transformation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only introduce yourself but also explain why you are the perfect fit for this role. Discuss your vision for the company and how your background in operations or commercial leadership can contribute to Marine Guard's growth.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include specific examples of past achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage P&L, drive operational efficiency, and lead teams. Use metrics where possible to quantify your success.
Follow Application Instructions: When applying, ensure you follow the specified format for your email title and include all required documents. This shows attention to detail and respect for the application process, which is crucial for a leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
β¨Understand the Company and Its Market
Before your interview, take the time to research Marine Guard thoroughly. Understand their products, services, and the markets they operate in, especially the superyacht sector. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your interest and show how you can contribute to their growth strategy.
β¨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
As a potential Managing Director, you'll need to discuss strategic leadership. Prepare examples of how you've shaped strategies in previous roles, particularly in driving growth and innovation. Be ready to share your vision for Marine Guard's future and how you would approach new market opportunities.
β¨Showcase Your Leadership Style
The role requires a hands-on leader who inspires teams. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've built strong teams and fostered a positive culture in past positions. Highlight your ability to switch between strategy and execution effectively.
β¨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role involves full P&L ownership, be ready to discuss your experience with financial management. Prepare to talk about how you've driven improvements in margin, cost control, and operational efficiency in previous roles. This will showcase your commercial awareness and readiness for the responsibilities of the position.