At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform two logistics businesses, driving growth and operational excellence.
- Company: Join Silver X Group and Bow Distribution, part of a dynamic family-owned logistics group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, generous leave, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a supportive and ambitious environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of logistics with full ownership and accountability in a growing company.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in logistics, P&L management, and business transformation experience required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 € per year.
Location: On site / Riddings, Alfreton DE55 4BR, UK
Job type: Permanent / Full-time
Sector and subsector: Supply Chain | Logistics
Salary: Competitive salary
This is an opportunity to take full ownership of two well‑established logistics businesses at a pivotal stage of growth and transformation. Silver X Group and Bow Distribution are high‑performing Midlands‑based operators across pallet network, general haulage, warehousing, and groupage services. Now part of GBA Logistics, a leading, family‑owned operator across the UK and Europe, the businesses are entering a critical phase of collaboration, transformation, and accelerated growth.
With a combined turnover of c.£25m and a clear ambition to double in size by 2030, we are seeking a commercially driven Business Unit Director to lead this next chapter. This is a high‑impact, end‑to‑end business leadership role for someone who can rebuild, integrate, scale, and grow, while bringing structure, accountability, and energy into a fast‑paced environment.
The Opportunity
- As Business Unit Director, you will take full ownership of a complex, multi‑site logistics operation covering transport, pallet network activity, groupage, and warehousing, leading a workforce of 150+ colleagues and a well‑established customer base.
- You will be accountable for the operational, commercial, financial, and cultural performance of the business, while playing a key role within the wider GBA Group Senior Leadership Team.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Setting and executing the strategic direction of the business unit in alignment with Group objectives.
- Taking full ownership of P&L and EBITDA performance, driving profitability, efficiency, and sustainable growth.
- Leading collaboration and alignment between Silver X & Bow Distribution and the wider GBA Group, embedding “Group First” principles.
- Identifying and delivering commercial growth opportunities, including new markets, services, and customer segments.
- Developing and executing growth across pallet network, warehousing, transport, and groupage operations.
- Strengthening capability across all operational areas, improving service and scalability.
- Leading and developing a high‑performing leadership team, building depth and succession capability.
- Driving operational excellence and transformation, improving service delivery, cost base, and overall performance.
- Enhancing customer relationships and commercial performance, acting as a credible external leader.
- Ensuring rigorous governance, compliance, and safety standards across all operations.
- Building a high‑performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and delivery.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience leading complex logistics or transport operations, ideally including pallet network and groupage.
- Demonstrable track record of full P&L ownership and EBITDA delivery.
- Experience of business transformation, turnaround, or complex change programmes.
- Strong commercial instinct, with the ability to identify, win, and grow revenue streams.
- Experience leading multi‑site operations with scale, complexity, and diverse service offerings.
- A strategic yet hands‑on leadership style, able to move seamlessly between vision and execution.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with the credibility to lead internally and externally.
- Experience developing leadership teams and driving performance through people.
- High levels of resilience, accountability, and decision‑making capability.
About Silver X Group, Bow Distribution & GBA Logistics
Silver X Group and Bow Distribution are established and respected logistics businesses operating across pallet network distribution, general haulage, warehousing, and groupage services throughout the UK. Now part of the wider GBA Logistics Group, the businesses are entering an exciting new phase of growth, investment, and operational development. GBA Logistics is a rapidly growing UK and European logistics group, with capabilities spanning freight management, dedicated fleet, automotive logistics, warehousing, and international supply chain solutions. The Group is investing significantly in people, infrastructure, technology, and operational capability.
Why Join Us
- A genuine business leadership role with full accountability and autonomy.
- Opportunity to shape and scale a £25m+ operation within a growing Group.
- Be at the forefront of collaboration, transformation, and growth.
- Backed by a successful, ambitious, family‑owned logistics Group.
- Lead a strong, established team of 150+ colleagues with deep operational capability.
- Clear strategic ambition and investment to support growth.
Benefits
- Competitive executive salary + performance-related bonus.
- 25 days annual leave (increasing to 32) + bank holidays.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Retail, gym, and leisure discounts.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
This is a rare opportunity to take full ownership of a growing logistics business and play a defining role in its next phase of growth and transformation. If you are a commercially driven leader who thrives on accountability, builds high‑performing teams, and delivers sustainable results, we would love to hear from you. Apply today.
The Silver X Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and this vacancy may close early. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact Recruitment@silverxgroup.co.uk.
Business Unit Director employer: Hollybank Trustees Ltd
At Silver X Group and Bow Distribution, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic work environment in Riddings, Alfreton. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for leadership development and strategic involvement in a rapidly expanding logistics business. Our collaborative culture, competitive salary packages, and commitment to work-life balance make us an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the logistics sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Unit Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the logistics and supply chain sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their goals, especially around growth and transformation, so you can showcase how your experience aligns with their vision. Tailor your responses to highlight your leadership style and operational expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how you can take ownership of a complex logistics operation and drive commercial growth. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and improve performance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Silver X Group and Bow Distribution. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Unit Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Leadership Style:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your leadership style. We want to see how you balance strategic vision with hands-on execution, especially in a fast-paced logistics environment like ours.
Demonstrate Commercial Acumen:Don’t forget to showcase your commercial instincts! Talk about how you've identified and grown revenue streams in previous roles. This is key for us as we aim for growth and transformation.
Be Specific About Achievements:Use specific examples to illustrate your achievements, particularly around P&L ownership and operational excellence. We love numbers, so if you can quantify your successes, even better!
Apply Through Our Website:Finally, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Silver X Group and Bow Distribution.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hollybank Trustees Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Business Unit Director, you'll be accountable for P&L and EBITDA performance. Brush up on your financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've driven profitability in past roles. Bring specific examples of how you’ve improved financial performance in logistics operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a hands-on leadership approach. Be prepared to share your experiences in leading diverse teams and driving performance. Highlight instances where you've built high-performing teams and how you foster collaboration and accountability within your workforce.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Vision
The company is looking for someone who can balance strategic vision with operational delivery. Prepare to discuss your approach to setting and executing strategic directions in previous roles, especially in complex logistics environments. Think about how you can align business objectives with group goals.
✨Be Ready for Transformation Talk
Since this position involves driving transformation and growth, come equipped with examples of successful change programmes you've led. Discuss the challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the impact of these transformations on the business. This will show your capability to lead during critical phases.