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- Tasks: Lead and shape the UK and EU strategy for a high-growth defence tech organisation.
- Company: Dynamic defence technology company expanding its footprint in Europe.
- Benefits: Autonomy in decision-making, competitive salary, and a people-first culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence and space programmes while building a new team.
- Qualifications: Proven P&L experience in defence or space sector and active UK security clearance.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with an executive team and drive meaningful change.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
A high-growth defence technology organisation is establishing its UK and broader European footprint as part of a major global expansion. This is a rare opportunity to take full operational ownership of a new regional base, building local delivery capability, securing market share across defence and space programmes and acting as the senior leader for the UK business while working closely with an executive team headquartered in Australia.
The Managing Director will shape and drive the UK and EU strategy with meaningful autonomy across commercial growth, operations and people leadership, making decisions that both influence the region and reflect the organisation’s established corporate structure. With support from the corporate services structure, the Managing Director will build and scale a small team from the ground up to establish core business development and field service capability.
The role will oversee revenue performance, profitability, and the creation of a scalable presence to support government and industry customers. It will also be responsible for developing trusted relationships with primes, SME partners, and defence stakeholders, including emerging opportunities across the EU and Scandinavian markets.
The successful candidate will bring proven experience running a P&L within the defence and or space sector, with the breadth to oversee manufacturing, sustainment, R&D and operational delivery. This is ideally suited to a commercially minded leader with a strong understanding of the UK Ministry of Defence environment, regulatory requirements and classified programme participation.
Applicants must hold active UK security clearance at Secret level or above, or have held it recently with eligibility for reinstatement. A background combining senior military service with civilian defence industry leadership, or experience within a prime balanced by an SME mindset, will be highly regarded.
This organisation values purpose‑driven work, a people‑first culture and sustainable performance, grounded in data‑informed decisions and supported by leaders who communicate openly, take ownership and deliver with integrity.
Managing Director in London employer: TESS Search Partners
Contact Detail:
TESS Search Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the defence and space sectors, especially those who have experience with the UK Ministry of Defence. A personal introduction can make all the difference when you're aiming for that Managing Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company's mission and values. Understand their current projects and challenges in the UK and EU markets. This will help you showcase how your experience aligns perfectly with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings! Keep an eye on our website for opportunities and consider reaching out directly to express your interest. Sometimes, a proactive approach can put you on the radar before a position is even advertised.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership style! When discussing your past experiences, highlight how you've built teams and driven operational success. This is crucial for a role like Managing Director where people leadership is key.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in the defence and space sectors, especially any P&L management roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Managing Director role. Share your vision for the UK and EU strategy and how you plan to build a strong team. We love seeing passion and clarity!
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style. How do you foster a people-first culture? What strategies do you use to drive commercial growth? We’re keen to understand how you’ll lead our new regional base.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget 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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at TESS Search Partners
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Managing Director, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of P&L management. Brush up on your financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've driven revenue growth and profitability in previous roles. This shows you’re not just a leader but a commercially savvy one.
✨Understand the Defence Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the UK Ministry of Defence environment and current regulatory requirements. Being able to speak knowledgeably about recent developments in defence and space programmes will impress the interviewers and show that you're serious about the role.
✨Build Relationships
This role involves developing trusted relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built partnerships in the past, especially within the defence sector. Highlighting your networking skills can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
The organisation values a people-first culture, so be ready to discuss your leadership philosophy. Share specific instances where you've fostered team development or navigated challenges while maintaining integrity and open communication. This will resonate well with their values.
