At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a £150m specialist contracting business and enhance client relationships.
- Company: Fast-growing construction group with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, flexible working, and potential for longer-term engagement.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and collaboration with entrepreneurial leaders.
- Why this job: Make an immediate impact in a dynamic environment and shape the future of the business.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in specialist contracting and strong emotional intelligence.
A rare interim opportunity to come in and support a c.£150m turnover specialist contracting business in the built environment, part of a wider, fast-growing construction-related group that has scaled through acquisition.
We're seeking a seasoned operator to provide air cover and senior leadership across a small portfolio of specialist building-envelope and sustainable-technology businesses.
The role:
- Work hand-in-glove with the Group CEO, bringing deep contracting expertise to complement his.
- Get under the skin of each business — steadying client relationships and delivery.
- Sharpen strategy and pricing.
- Assess leadership capability through a period of transition, working closely with entrepreneurial founder-leaders.
- Report with clarity at board level.
You'll likely be:
- A strong leader with excellent EQ.
- Able to oscillate from client, contract detail and risk through to strategy and planning.
- Experienced in leading specialist contracting businesses at scale.
- Comfortable in acquisitive, partially listed or listed environments.
- Someone who can land well and assimilate from day one.
Location: South East England + travel (or flexible, providing prepared to travel).
Potential for longer, but the priority is bringing in someone who can land well and add value immediately. Available now or at short notice — day rate or fixed-term basis.
Interim CEO — Specialist Contracting employer: The McLean Partnership
As an Interim CEO for a specialist contracting business in the South East, you will join a dynamic and fast-growing group that values innovation and leadership. The company fosters a collaborative work culture, offering opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a significant impact during a pivotal transition period. With competitive compensation and the flexibility to travel, this role is ideal for seasoned professionals looking to leverage their expertise in a rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim CEO — Specialist Contracting
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction and contracting sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that interim CEO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to showcase your expertise! Prepare to discuss your past experiences in leading specialist contracting businesses. We want to hear how you've tackled challenges and delivered results, so have those success stories at the ready.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay flexible and open-minded! The role might require you to adapt quickly to different business environments. Show us that you can oscillate between client details and high-level strategy without breaking a sweat.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re keen to see your application come through directly. It shows initiative and gives us a chance to connect with you right away. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim CEO — Specialist Contracting
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Interim CEO. Highlight your experience in specialist contracting and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with the needs of a £150m turnover business.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this interim role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated transitions and led teams in similar environments. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your emotional intelligence and ability to lead through change. We’re looking for someone who can connect with both clients and teams, so make sure to highlight those soft skills alongside your technical expertise.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The McLean Partnership
✨Know the Business Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company’s history, its current projects, and its position in the market. Understanding their recent acquisitions and how they fit into the overall strategy will show that you’re genuinely interested and prepared to contribute from day one.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Style
As a potential Interim CEO, it’s crucial to showcase your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through transitions or challenges in the past. Highlight your emotional intelligence and ability to connect with both clients and team members.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Strategy
Expect questions about your strategic vision for the business. Think about how you would sharpen their strategy and pricing. Be prepared to discuss specific tactics you would implement to enhance client relationships and delivery, as well as how you would assess and develop leadership capabilities.
✨Prepare for Board-Level Reporting
Since you'll be reporting at board level, practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. Bring examples of how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders in previous roles, ensuring you can convey your insights and recommendations with confidence.
