At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic manufacturing business and drive its growth strategy.
- Company: Established engineering and manufacturing firm in Devon with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Executive salary of £100k plus full benefits and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity for real ownership and accountability in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a business and make a lasting impact on its success.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in engineering or manufacturing with a track record of growth.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 80000 £ per year.
This is a rare opportunity to take the lead of an established, technically driven manufacturing business and shape its next phase of growth. We are looking for an ambitious and commercially astute Managing Director who can combine strategic leadership with a firm grip on operational and financial performance. You will have the authority to set direction, strengthen the leadership team, and build a business capable of delivering sustainable, profitable growth. This is not a role for someone who wants to lead from a distance. We need a visible and accountable Managing Director who understands how a high-performing manufacturing operation works, knows which questions to ask, and is prepared to make well-informed decisions.
The opportunity
Reporting to the Group CEO, you will assume full responsibility for the performance and future direction of the business. You will develop and deliver a clear growth strategy while ensuring the company has the people, processes and commercial discipline required to achieve it. You will inherit a capable team and an established operation, but there is genuine scope to make your mark—improving performance, developing new opportunities, and creating a stronger, more scalable organisation.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Taking full ownership of the company’s financial, commercial, and operational performance
- Developing and delivering short-, medium- and long-term business strategies
- Driving profitable growth through existing customers, new markets, and business development
- Producing robust budgets, forecasts, and performance plans
- Using meaningful KPIs to create accountability and improve decision-making
- Strengthening operational processes, controls, and management information
- Identifying and mitigating commercial, financial, and operational risk
- Developing strong, sustainable relationships with customers and strategic partners
- Leading continuous improvement, innovation, and appropriate automation
- Building, developing, and retaining a capable senior leadership team
- Creating a culture that combines high expectations with support, honesty, and accountability
- Ensuring quality, delivery and customer service remain central to business performance
About you
You will already have operated in a senior leadership position within an engineering, electronics, or technically complex manufacturing environment. This could be as a Managing Director, General Manager, Business Unit Director, Operations Director or similar. Most importantly, you will be able to demonstrate that you have improved a business—not simply maintained one.
We are looking for someone with:
- A strong record of delivering profitable growth
- Broad commercial, operational and financial leadership experience
- The ability to understand and manage a full P&L
- Experience developing and implementing business strategy
- A thorough understanding of engineering or manufacturing operations
- The confidence to challenge established thinking and address underperformance
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to turn data into decisive action
- Experience leading teams through growth, change or transformation
- The ability to attract talent and develop high-performing people
- Sound commercial judgement and a calculated approach to risk
- A demanding but supportive leadership style
- High emotional intelligence, integrity and resilience
- Excellent communication skills across employees, customers and senior stakeholders
A relevant degree would be advantageous, although substantial experience operating successfully at this level will be equally valued.
Why consider this opportunity?
This is a genuine leadership appointment with the scope to influence the entire organisation. You will have the freedom to shape strategy, improve performance and build a business that is stronger, more profitable and ready for its next stage of development. For a commercially minded manufacturing leader who wants real ownership, accountability and the opportunity to leave a lasting mark, this represents an outstanding next move.
Location: Devon
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Package: £100k + full benefits
All applications and initial conversations will be handled in the strictest confidence.
Managing Director in Exeter employer: gap personnel
As a Farm Operative, you will join a dedicated team in a supportive and dynamic work environment that prioritises animal welfare and employee development. With flexible working hours and comprehensive training provided, this role offers a unique opportunity to grow your skills while contributing to the well-being of livestock. Located in a picturesque rural setting, our company fosters a culture of teamwork and respect, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director in Exeter
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like gap personnel, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to gap personnel specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at gap personnel
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with gap personnel, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like gap personnel value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
