At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a new vocational education business across multiple sectors, including maritime and finance.
- Company: Join an innovative international commercial training group with a focus on growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a high-performance culture that values learner outcomes and engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping the future of vocational training and education.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in vocational education and a commercial mindset.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
We are conceiving a new (vocational) education/training business: A separate business, likely outside Union but within the same beneficially owned group, which would house SeaLearn (for maritime training) as well as training businesses/schemes focused on other sectors. This role will have multi-sector scope: a new business covering maritime (SeaLearn) plus other sectors (finance/accounting, IT, etc.). i.e. A portfolio across sectors. We are looking for someone from PE-backed and other major training organisations; this organisation will be an international commercial training group.
The Position
As Managing Director you will be responsible for the successful leadership and management of the entity. Your role will involve establishing strategic goals and formulating plans to ensure the key objectives are met. You will also be responsible for reporting back to the management team with suggestions and improvements needed to ensure the organisation is performing at its best.
Strategic Leadership- Develop and implement the education strategy aligned with business growth objectives
- Lead curriculum innovation to meet evolving industry and employer requirements
- Contribute to business planning, forecasting, and expansion of training programmes
- Oversee design and delivery of vocational programmes (apprenticeships, certifications, short courses)
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory and awarding bodies (e.g. Ofsted, ESFA)
- Drive continuous improvement through quality assurance frameworks and performance data
- Manage day-to-day training operations, including delivery teams and resources
- Monitor KPIs such as learner achievement, retention, and progression
- Optimise delivery models (in-person, blended, online) for efficiency and impact
- Lead, develop, and inspire a team of trainers, assessors, and curriculum leads
- Foster a high-performance culture focused on learner outcomes and engagement
- Oversee recruitment, training, and performance management of education staff
- Build strong relationships with employers, partners, and awarding bodies
- Ensure programmes reflect current market and skills demands
- Represent the organisation in inspections, audits, and external reviews
- Support business development by identifying new training opportunities
- Ensure programmes are financially viable and meet revenue targets
- Contribute to bids, tenders, and new market entry strategies
- Leading/building international educational business’s.
- Proven leadership experience in vocational education, training, or apprenticeships
- Commercial mindset with the ability to link education delivery to business performance
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Track record of improving learner outcomes and operational efficiency
- Experience in a private training provider or employer-led training environment
- Familiarity with digital learning platforms and blended delivery models
Managing Director employer: Union Maritime
Union Vega Offshore is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and entrepreneurial work environment in the heart of London. As an Offshore Operations Manager, you will have the opportunity to engage with high-profile offshore projects while benefiting from competitive remuneration and career development opportunities within a rapidly expanding international business. Join us to be part of a team that values safety, efficiency, and commercial success in the offshore sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. We want to show that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you understand the market landscape. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s ready to lead!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! We recommend rehearsing how you’ll present your experience and vision for the role. Make sure you can articulate how your background aligns with their goals, especially in vocational education and training.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the position and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, we love candidates who take initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Managing Director role. Highlight your leadership experience in vocational education and any relevant commercial achievements to catch our eye!
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 multi-sector role. Share your vision for the new training business and how you plan to drive success across different sectors.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your ability to develop and implement strategies. We want to see how you've led curriculum innovation or improved learner outcomes in previous roles—give us the details!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our new venture.
How to prepare for a job interview at Union Maritime
✨Know Your Business Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company’s mission and values, especially regarding their new vocational education venture. Familiarise yourself with SeaLearn and other training sectors they’re targeting. This will help you align your experience with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Managing Director, your leadership approach is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in vocational education or training. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop others, as well as how you’ve driven performance improvements.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about strategic planning and curriculum innovation. Be ready to discuss how you would develop and implement an education strategy that aligns with business growth objectives. Think about specific initiatives you've led that resulted in measurable outcomes.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your experience in stakeholder management by preparing examples of how you've built relationships with employers and partners. Discuss how you’ve ensured programmes meet market demands and how you’ve represented your organisation in audits or inspections.
