At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a creative design team and manage operations for a thriving wholesale business.
- Company: Join a top European design company known for seasonal decorations and gifts.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, excellent benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Ideal for those seeking stability and long-term impact in a dynamic industry.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a respected brand while ensuring its legacy and growth.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in design-led wholesale or retail with strong operational skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Based in London. Excellent Salary & Benefits. Our client is one of Europe’s leading design companies for seasonal decorations and gifts. Founded in 1983 and now an international business, the Founder herself selects the perfect products for each of their amazing collections. With a dynamic, dedicated team around her, she is able to bring her unique and unmatched style to customers all around the world.
An exciting opportunity now exists for an experienced Managing Director with a proven track record in a creative, design led wholesale or retail business to work for this £20m turnover SME.
Purpose of the RoleTo provide steady, experienced leadership to support a wholesale business with 3,000 upscale retailer customers. The Managing Director’s role is to look after what already works well, ensure the business remains well prepared for peak periods, and protect the company’s financial strength, people and reputation over the long term. This is a role focused on continuity, sound judgement and care for the business rather than change for its own sake.
Key Duties & ResponsibilitiesThe MD will have full operational responsibility for the business including; being responsible for delivering the budget, ensuring operational excellence, and driving the development and growth of the business.
Experience & Background- Senior leadership with considerable experience in design-led wholesale or retail businesses.
- Familiarity with seasonal trading patterns and the demands they place on planning, stock and cash.
- Experience working alongside owners, with respect for the history and values of the business.
- Comfortable operating in well-established organisations with long-serving teams.
- Thoughtful and well prepared, with decisions taken in good time ahead of each season.
- Careful with commitments and risk, particularly around stock, cash and supplier arrangements.
- Values consistency, reliability and learning from past seasons.
- Calm, measured and reassuring, especially during busy or pressured trading periods.
- Listens carefully and builds on existing knowledge and experience.
- Low-key, respectful and dependable rather than directive or showy.
- Provides quiet confidence and clear judgement when decisions are needed.
- Values the contribution of long-standing colleagues and established ways of working.
- Ensures the business is properly prepared for peak trading across operations, customer service and suppliers.
- Supports teams through demanding periods with fairness and understanding.
- Encourages sensible planning and review rather than last-minute reactions.
- Communicates openly and sensitively with family members and directors.
- Helps set realistic expectations based on experience and careful analysis.
- Will raise concerns or alternative views respectfully and constructively.
- Always acts in the long-term interests of the business.
- Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in environments where nuance, timing and discretion matter.
- Experience acting as a trusted intermediary between owners and senior management.
Seeking a stable, long-term leadership role. Comfortable with the rhythm of seasonal trading. Motivated by stewardship, care and continuity.
Locations
Managing Director - Wholesale Creative Design/Premium Lifestyle Brands in City of London, London employer: Norrie Johnston Recruitment - Global Executive Search & Interim Management
As a leading design company based in London, our client offers an exceptional work environment that values creativity, stability, and long-term growth. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that respects established practices while encouraging thoughtful leadership and collaboration. With a focus on employee well-being and professional development, this SME provides a unique opportunity for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the premium lifestyle sector.
Contact Details:
Norrie Johnston Recruitment - Global Executive Search & Interim Management Recruitment Team
