At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team and drive impactful policy research.
- Company: Join a bold, non-partisan UK think-tank shaping political landscapes.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture with opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in policy while enhancing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Senior management experience and a knack for strategic planning required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
A well-established, research and strategy consultancy is seeking a commercially astute, values-led Managing Director to lead its next chapter.Founded over two decades ago, the organisation has built an internationally recognised reputation for high-quality research, evaluation, strategy and policy work across global challenges helping governments, donors, foundations and civil society learn and adapt. Their expertise covers a wide range of issues from governance, climate change and economic development to conflict, inclusion and humanitarian response.
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The successful candidate will bring genuine commercial and turnaround leadership experience, combined with the ability to rebuild trust and re-energise a talented team through a new phase of growth. They will be a people-first leader who has working knowledge across some of their key areas of focus; conflict, climate change, economic development and justice. This role will suit a self-starter who wants to build and lead a business in an autonomous role, with the backing and expertise of a strong heritage and experienced board.
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Key Responsibilities
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- Provide overall commercial, financial and operational leadership of the business, with full P&L accountability
- Deliver against an agreed strategic plan, driving diversification into new sectors, clients and service lines
- Hold the leadership team to account against clear commercial KPIs, embedding a culture of financial discipline and accountability
- Lead, inspire and rebuild trust across a small, technically expert team following a period of significant organisational change
- Represent the organisation externally, developing and maintaining senior relationships with government departments, multilateral institutions, foundations and other key clients
- Maintain and grow existing high-value client relationships while identifying and securing new business opportunities
- Uphold and champion the organisation's values, employee ownership model and B Corp commitments
- Oversee governance, risk management and compliance in partnership with the Board and Trust Board
- Maintain personal billable/fee-earning delivery capacity alongside executive leadership responsibilities
- Manage the transition to a new hybrid working model and office arrangement
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Key Requirements
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- Senior executive leadership experience
- A demonstrable track record of leading an organisation through commercial challenge, restructuring or turnaround, ideally with quantifiable outcomes
- Proven ability to win and retain clients, with a credible personal network across government, international development, multilateral institutions, foundations, or adjacent commercial sectors
- Strong commercial and financial management acumen, with full P&L experience
- Experience of building and executing a growth or diversification strategy
- Corporate governance and risk management experience
- Comfort operating within a fee-earning, billable consulting delivery model
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Managing Director in London employer: Hanson Search
Hanson Search is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture, perfect for those looking to make a significant impact in the enterprise technology sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer ample opportunities for professional development and the chance to work with global clients, ensuring that your contributions are both meaningful and rewarding. Located in a vibrant area, our team enjoys a supportive environment that encourages innovation and creativity, making it an ideal place for ambitious professionals to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the think-tank and policy sectors. Attend relevant events, webinars, or conferences where you can meet key players in the industry. Building relationships can give you insights into the organisation's culture and needs.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the current projects and reports produced by the think-tank. Understanding their recent work will allow you to speak knowledgeably about their initiatives during any discussions or interviews, showcasing your genuine interest in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with the organisation's goals. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to inspire teams and drive strategic initiatives.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current political trends and policy changes that may impact the think-tank's focus areas. Being well-informed will help you articulate how your experience and vision can contribute to the organisation's future success.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your senior management experience and showcases your ability to develop and implement strategic plans. Use specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of the political and policy landscape.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that clearly articulates your vision for the role of Managing Director. Discuss how your entrepreneurial approach and hands-on problem-solving skills can contribute to the organisation's growth and effectiveness.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your application, emphasise any experience you have in sales, fundraising, or development work. Provide concrete examples of how you've successfully managed projects and led teams in similar environments.
Showcase Leadership Skills:Demonstrate your ability to inspire and guide teams. Include instances where you've played a critical role in team leadership and operational performance, ensuring to align these experiences with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hanson Search
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the think-tank's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their recent research reports and policy areas they focus on. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Managing Director, leadership is key. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed projects in the past. Highlight your experience in strategic development and how you've contributed to organisational growth.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Given the financial management aspect of the role, be ready to talk about your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance. Provide examples of how you've effectively managed resources and contributed to financial sustainability in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle multiple deadlines. Think of situations where you've had to make tough decisions or navigate complex challenges, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
