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- Tasks: Lead a creative design company and manage operations for upscale retailers.
- Company: A top European design firm known for seasonal decorations and gifts.
- Benefits: Excellent salary, benefits, and a chance to shape a thriving business.
- Other info: Stable role focused on continuity and long-term success.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a lasting impact in the design industry.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in design-led wholesale or retail with strong operational skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ 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 Role
To 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 & Responsibilities
- The 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.
Way of Working
- 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.
Leadership Approach
- 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.
People & Operations
- 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.
Working with Owners & Directors
- 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.
Outlook
- Seeking a stable, long-term leadership role.
- Comfortable with the rhythm of seasonal trading.
- Motivated by stewardship, care and continuity.
Managing Director - Wholesale Creative Design/Premium Lifestyle Brands in London employer: Norrie Johnston Recruitment - Global Executive Search & Interim Management
Contact Detail:
Norrie Johnston Recruitment - Global Executive Search & Interim Management Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director - Wholesale Creative Design/Premium Lifestyle Brands in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and engage on social media. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their values, products, and market position. We want to show them that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets their business.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to be able to articulate your experience and vision clearly. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director - Wholesale Creative Design/Premium Lifestyle Brands in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Managing Director role. Highlight your leadership experience in design-led businesses and any familiarity with seasonal trading patterns.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for creative design and how your calm, measured approach can benefit our team and the business.
Showcase Your Experience: In your application, be sure to detail your past achievements in managing teams and driving growth. We want to see how you've successfully navigated challenges in similar environments.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you 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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Norrie Johnston Recruitment - Global Executive Search & Interim Management
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company's history, values, and product offerings. Understanding their unique style and what makes them stand out in the seasonal decorations and gifts market will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with the company's values. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams through busy trading periods, ensuring operational excellence while maintaining a calm and measured presence.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling peak trading challenges or managing stock and cash flow. Prepare thoughtful responses that highlight your experience in similar situations, showcasing your ability to make sound decisions under pressure while valuing consistency and reliability.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with owners and directors, emphasise your ability to communicate openly and sensitively. Share examples of how you've built strong relationships in previous roles, particularly in environments where discretion and timing are crucial.