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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations in a global manufacturing environment and drive strategic growth.
- Company: Join a century-old international leader in the PHAR industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive health coverage.
- Why this job: Step into a CEO-designate role with a clear path to leadership.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in PHAR sectors and strong commercial acumen.
- Other info: Extensive travel opportunities and mentorship from the current Group CEO.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 168000 £ per year.
Our client is an established international manufacturer with over 100 years of heritage, specialising in high-quality fittings and valves for the Plumbing, Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration (PHAR) sectors. With manufacturing facilities across Europe and a global distribution network spanning multiple continents. This is a strategically critical appointment designed as a CEO-designate position. The successful candidate will work closely with the Group CEO, initially focusing on products, manufacturing, and supply chain excellence, with accountability expanding over time to include sales, marketing, and full Group leadership. This role offers a clear pathway to Group CEO, subject to performance and Board approval. The role requires extensive international travel and on-site presence at the UK headquarters when not travelling.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Excellence
- Attain deep technical and commercial understanding of the product portfolio and end-to-end supply chain
- Strengthen and optimise international manufacturing performance across facilities in Germany, Spain, and Poland
- Drive cost control, delivery excellence, and operational efficiency across the manufacturing network
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers whilst protecting the Group's commercial interests
- Strategic Development
- Track market trends, regulatory developments, and customer requirements across global markets
- Propose and sponsor new product development, range extensions, and market-specific introductions
- Identify and execute opportunities to increase sales, improve profitability, and reduce structural costs
- Lead the evolution of sales and marketing strategy to accelerate growth and margin expansion
- Leadership & Governance
- Provide clear direction, accountability, and motivation to international management teams
- Maintain strong internal credibility across engineering, operations, and commercial functions
- Conduct structured weekly reviews with direct reports and deliver concise monthly performance reports to the CEO and shareholders
- Build enduring relationships with key customers, suppliers, and partners through regular engagement
- Represent the Group externally with professionalism, authority, and sound judgement
- CEO Transition Preparation
- Work in close partnership with the Group CEO to prepare for leadership transition
- Gradually assume responsibility for Business Unit Directors and broader commercial operations
- Demonstrate increasing capability to operate at Group CEO level throughout the tenure
Requirements
- Required Qualifications
- Educational background: Engineering-based degree or equivalent qualification
- Industry Experience: Proven senior leadership experience within the Plumbing, Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration (PHAR) sectors
- Manufacturing Expertise: Demonstrated track record in international manufacturing and distribution environments
- Supply Chain Mastery: Deep understanding of end-to-end supply chain management and optimisation
- Commercial Acumen: Strong commercial, sales, and marketing track record with ability to bridge technical excellence with commercial growth
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead international teams with clarity, motivation, and firm protection of company interests
- Languages: Fluency in English is essential
- Travel: Willing and able to travel extensively throughout the year across Europe and international markets
- Location: Ability to be on-site at the UK headquarters (Kingswinford, West Midlands) when not travelling
- Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of Polish, Spanish, French, Italian, or German is advantageous
- Experience working with shareholders and Board-level governance
- Track record of successful CEO or senior executive transitions
- Experience in family-owned or privately-held manufacturing businesses
Benefits Package & Benefits
- Compensation
- Base Salary: £150,000 - £160,000 per annum (negotiable for exceptional candidates)
- Bonus Structure: Performance-related bonus scheme
- Car Allowance: Provided
- Pension Contribution: Company pension scheme
- Private Medical Insurance: Comprehensive cover
- Life Assurance: Included
- Leave & Additional Benefits
- Annual Leave: 25 days per year plus UK bank holidays
- Relocation Assistance: Available for the right candidate (package to be defined and agreed)
Career Development
- Structured pathway to Group CEO position within two years
- Comprehensive onboarding and support plan for first 6-12 months
- Close mentorship and partnership with current Group CEO
- Support from Board of Directors throughout transition
Chief of Operations - PHAR Industries in Kingswinford employer: Keller Executive Search
Contact Detail:
Keller Executive Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief of Operations - PHAR Industries in Kingswinford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend relevant events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their market position and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Be ready to share examples of how you've motivated teams and driven efficiency in previous roles, particularly in manufacturing and supply chain contexts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to step into a CEO-designate role.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief of Operations - PHAR Industries in Kingswinford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in the PHAR sectors. We want to see how your background aligns with our client's needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Leadership Experience: Since this role is all about leadership, be sure to emphasise your previous senior roles and how you've successfully led teams. We’re looking for someone who can motivate and guide others, so share those success stories!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Keller Executive Search
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a deep understanding of the PHAR sectors, especially around fittings and valves. Brush up on the latest trends in plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration. This knowledge will help you answer technical questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role is about leading international teams, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and past experiences. Think of specific examples where you've motivated teams or driven operational excellence. Highlight how you can build strong relationships with suppliers and customers, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Since you'll be involved in strategic development, come ready to discuss market trends and how they could impact the company. Have ideas on potential product developments or market-specific introductions. This shows that you’re not just thinking about the present but also the future of the business.
✨Be Ready for Travel Talk
Given the extensive travel required, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to travel. Share any relevant experiences from previous roles where travel was a key component. This will reassure them that you’re ready for the demands of the position.
