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- Tasks: Lead the Performance Chemicals Division and drive international business development.
- Company: Join Thomas Swan Ltd, a respected family-owned company with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of innovative chemical solutions.
- Qualifications: Degree in a science or technical field; proven leadership and commercial experience required.
- Other info: This is a senior role with significant influence on the company's long-term strategy.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially strong, inspirational business leader to join a highly regarded, industry-renowned company which continues to enjoy rapid and profitable growth. From its UK base and through international offices and distributors, Thomas Swan Ltd has ambitious plans for further development including overseas manufacturing and targeted acquisitions.
Privately-owned, the company manufactures and markets a technically strong range of products which require detailed and innovative commercial leadership to ensure that the company remains at the forefront of their chosen sectors, along with strategic thinking and collaboration to ensure that ambitious business plans can be realised.
Reporting to the CEO, Harry Swan, who is the fourth generation of this highly successful family business, the appointee will be fully accountable for all aspects of the £25m turnover Performance Chemicals Division along with significant input into the supporting operational activities of the company. This includes full P&L responsibility, with particular emphasis on developing, setting, and delivering realistic and accurate sales budgets and forecasts in line with the company’s 5-year plan.
The incumbent will be a proactive, hands-on and influential sales leader, targeting new product and service development as a key component of future margin growth and will collaborate closely with all areas of the business to ensure common purpose and a co-ordinated approach. Cultural fit, professionalism, and proactivity will all be of paramount importance to this appointment as will an understanding and acknowledgement of the issues affecting family-run SMEs.
This is a senior and influential role, and the right individual will enjoy contributing to the overall long-term development of the wider organisation. Candidates, ideally qualified to degree level or equivalent in a science or technical discipline, will demonstrate a track record of inspirational team leadership, strategic thinking, strong teamwork, a high level of integrity and a desire to build strong relationships both internally and externally.
Experienced in leading commercial teams, along with the development and successful closure of new business opportunities, the appointee will demonstrate drive, tenacity, ‘presence’ and strong financial awareness coupled with exemplary communication, data management & presentation skills. Listening, influencing and negotiation will all be key competencies along with effective analysis and decision-making skills, and a positive, enthusiastic outlook which will engage others to deliver exceptional results.
Interested applicants should send a detailed CV and covering letter quoting current salary and reference 2005/web to 2005@transitionplus.co.uk or for an initial confidential discussion, please call Steve Bennett at Tel: +44 (0) 1270 875710.
Job ID: 2005
Type: Full Time
Location: North East, England
Minimum Education: Degree Level or Equivalent
Business Director employer: International Markets
Contact Detail:
International Markets Recruiting Team
2005@transitionplus.co.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Director
✨Tip Number 1
Research Thomas Swan Ltd thoroughly. Understand their product range, market position, and recent developments in the speciality chemicals sector. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Thomas Swan Ltd on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations for the Business Director role, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading commercial teams and developing new business opportunities. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your strategic thinking and ability to drive growth, as these are key competencies for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of family-run SMEs and the unique challenges they face. Highlight how your leadership style aligns with their values and how you can contribute to their long-term development, which will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in business development and leadership within the chemicals or related industries. Use specific examples that demonstrate your track record of achieving sales targets and leading teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your skills align with the requirements mentioned in the job description, particularly your strategic thinking and ability to drive growth.
Highlight Key Competencies: Emphasise your competencies such as negotiation, data management, and communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully used these skills in previous roles to achieve results.
Show Cultural Fit: Research Thomas Swan Ltd and reflect on their values in your application. Mention your understanding of family-run SMEs and how your professional approach aligns with their culture and long-term goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at International Markets
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Business Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led commercial teams in the past, focusing on your strategic thinking and team collaboration.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Thomas Swan Ltd is a family-run business, so it's crucial to show that you understand the dynamics of such organisations. Research their values and culture, and be ready to discuss how you can fit into and enhance this environment.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
With full P&L responsibility, you'll need to be comfortable discussing financial matters. Brush up on your financial acumen and be prepared to talk about how you've developed and delivered sales budgets and forecasts in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is key in this role, so prepare to discuss specific instances where you've successfully negotiated deals or resolved conflicts. Highlight your listening and influencing skills, as these will be essential in building strong relationships.
