At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow a dynamic UK tech manufacturing business with full P&L ownership.
- Company: Privately owned global tech manufacturing group with a reputation for innovation.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, company car, and pension.
- Why this job: Fast track your career to Managing Director with structured mentoring and support.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in automotive or engineering sectors with a strong commercial focus.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to growth and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking a high-potential Senior Executive / Senior Leader who is ready to step into a Managing Director remit within a privately owned, international technology-led manufacturing group operating across the Key Automotive, Industrial, Engineering and allied supply sectors.
With over 15 years of sustained growth, this group has built a reputation for innovation, autonomy, and long-term thinking. Each international subsidiary operates with genuine independence, and this role represents full P&L ownership of the UK / Group HQ operation, with the backing of engaged owners and an experienced incumbent MD for full handover.
This is a Managing Director Designate role, offering a structured, supportive and fast track transition into full MD responsibility. You will initially work alongside the current Managing Director in a mentoring-led handover, gaining deep insight into the business, its people, customers, and growth strategy — before assuming full MD status.
The remit is broad, autonomous, and commercially driven:
- Lead and grow the UK / HQ business
- Drive sales, marketing, and commercial strategy
- Own operational performance and financial outcomes
- Develop people, culture, and leadership capability
- Represent the business at board and shareholder level
We’re looking for someone special. A commercially sharp, people-centric leader with the ambition, gravitas, and capability to run a business in its entirety. You will most likely come from the Automotive, Aftermarket, Engineering, Industrial or allied product supply / manufacturing industries and already operate at Senior Leadership level, with a clear upward career trajectory toward MD.
Your Background Will Include:
- Senior leadership experience within the market sector you are in.
- Strong understanding of complex distribution routes to market and fragmented supply chains.
- A proven record of Sales growth and Commercial performance.
- Experience managing a business or business unit with real accountability.
- Exposure to international trading environments (desirable).
- Strong analytical and IT capability, able to turn data into actionable strategy.
- A passion for technology and technical products.
- The gravitas and confidence to influence at board and owner level.
You’ll be ambitious, resilient, and comfortable with challenge — but equally collaborative, values-led, and committed to developing people.
Package:
- Highly competitive salary (circa ÂŁ100k+, negotiable) + Excellent benefits
- Fast track to MD appointment rising remuneration (ÂŁ150k)
- Performance-related bonus
- Company car
- Pension
- Clear progression to full Managing Director
- Structured mentoring and handover from incumbent MD
Initial online “Meet the Employer” sessions will be conducted by our exclusive recruitment partner Glen Shepherd. Call Glen for a confidential conversation: 07977 266309 Or email your CV:
We are hiring now — if you’re ready to take the final step into a Managing Director role within a high-growth, privately owned, international tech manufacturer, this is your moment.
Glen Callum Associates is committed to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or background. We believe that a variety of perspectives makes a team stronger and a workplace better. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know - we’re here to support you.
Managing Director Designate employer: Glen Callum Associates ltd
Contact Detail:
Glen Callum Associates ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director Designate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry leaders, attend events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Managing Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills in every conversation. Whether it's a casual chat or a formal meeting, let your experience and vision shine through. We want to see that you can inspire and lead teams effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their culture, values, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director Designate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Managing Director Designate role. Highlight your senior leadership experience and any relevant achievements in the automotive or engineering sectors. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for technology and leadership. Share specific examples of how you've driven sales growth and managed teams effectively. Let us know why you're the perfect fit for this opportunity.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since we value strong analytical capabilities, make sure to include examples of how you've turned data into actionable strategies in your application. This will demonstrate your ability to drive operational performance and financial outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Glen Callum Associates ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Managing Director Designate, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics related to P&L ownership and be ready to discuss how you've driven sales growth and operational performance in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is all about people and culture. Prepare to share specific examples of how you've developed teams and fostered a positive work environment. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you’ve influenced others at senior levels.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the automotive and engineering sectors, especially regarding distribution routes and supply chains. Be prepared to discuss current trends and challenges in these industries, showing that you’re not just a leader but also an industry expert.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think through potential challenges you might encounter in this role and how you would address them, demonstrating your readiness for the MD position.