Managing Director

Managing Director

Full-Time 70000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead daily operations and drive commercial performance in a dynamic, multi-site business.
  • Company: Join a respected, 30-year-old business known for its strong presence in the Midlands.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus, equity potential, car allowance, and generous holiday.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of a legacy brand while fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership in product-based businesses; experience in trade environments is essential.
  • Other info: This role requires a hands-on leader ready to modernise and innovate.

The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.

Managing Director/CEO – Building Materials/Trade Distribution – Midlands – £70k-£80k + Bonus + Equity Potential

VIQU are proud to be supporting a highly respected, privately owned business in their search for a commercially focused Managing Director/CEO to lead the next stage of their growth journey.

With a 30+ year Legacy and a strong footprint across the Midlands, this business has become one of the region\’s most recognisable names in their field. With five established depots, a loyal trade customer base, and growing online presence, the opportunity now exists for an experienced and entrepreneurial leader to modernise and drive performance across the business.

The Role:

This is a hands-on, strategic leadership role – perfect for a commercially astute operator who knows how to lead a product-based, multi-site business from the front.

You will have full autonomy to shape the commercial strategy, modernise operations, and build a culture of high performance, alignment, and accountability. This is not a role for someone looking to step up – it requires a proven leader with experience running a complex, people-driven business.

The successful Managing Director will work closely with the founding owner (non-operational) to shape a long-term plan for growth and Legacy, while bringing in fresh thinking, structure, and pace.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the day-to-day operations across the business with full P&L ownership
  • Drive commercial performance, cost control, and margin improvement
  • Improve buying, stock management, and depot collaboration
  • Develop and implement a clear strategy for growth, retention, and digital expansion
  • Create a cohesive and accountable management structure across sites
  • Build a culture of performance, positivity, and shared values
  • Represent the brand with professionalism to customers, partners, and suppliers
  • Key Skills & Experience:

  • Proven leadership experience as a Managing Director, CEO, or Commercial Director in a relevant product-based business (eg distribution, multi-site trade, merchanting, or light manufacturing)
  • Commercially sharp, operationally strong, and used to leading across functions
  • Able to manage a high-volume, stock-sensitive business with margin discipline
  • Comfortable with modernising systems, processes, and team structures
  • Hands-on, confident, and values-led with strong interpersonal skills
  • Experience in trade customer environments and managing physical sites is essential
  • Role Details:

  • Job Title: Managing Director/CEO
  • Location: Midlands based HQ (Staffordshire) – onsite 5 days per week
  • Package: £70,000-£80,000 per annum + Bonus + Potential Equity
  • Benefits: Car/Allowance + 25 days holiday + bank holidays
  • Interview Process: 3 stages
  • Apply now to speak with VIQU in confidence or reach out to Nicholas Hopkins directly via the VIQU website. #J-18808-Ljbffr

    Managing Director employer: VIQU Ltd

    Join a highly respected, privately owned business with over 30 years of legacy in the Midlands, where you will have the autonomy to shape commercial strategies and drive performance across multiple sites. With a strong focus on employee growth, a culture of high performance, and a commitment to modernising operations, this role offers a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic team while enjoying competitive benefits including a generous holiday allowance and potential equity. Experience a supportive work environment that values innovation and accountability, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding leadership roles.
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    Contact Detail:

    VIQU Ltd Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Managing Director

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network with industry professionals in the building materials and trade distribution sectors. Attend relevant conferences, trade shows, or local business events to connect with potential contacts who might provide insights or referrals for the Managing Director role.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Research the company thoroughly, including its history, values, and recent developments. Understanding their current challenges and opportunities will help you tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in leading their growth journey.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led similar businesses in the past. Highlight your experience in driving commercial performance and modernising operations, as these are key aspects of the role that the company is looking for.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Showcase your leadership style and how it aligns with building a culture of performance and shared values. Be ready to articulate your vision for the company and how you plan to foster a cohesive management structure across multiple sites.

    We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director

    Proven Leadership Experience
    Commercial Acumen
    Operational Management
    Strategic Planning
    Financial Acumen
    P&L Management
    Change Management
    Team Building and Development
    Stakeholder Engagement
    Performance Management
    Supply Chain Management
    Digital Transformation
    Interpersonal Skills
    Customer Relationship Management
    Problem-Solving Skills

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership experience and achievements in managing product-based businesses. Focus on quantifiable results, such as revenue growth or operational improvements, to demonstrate your impact.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your vision aligns with their goals and how your experience can help modernise and drive performance across the business.

    Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your skills in commercial strategy, P&L management, and team leadership. Mention any experience you have in trade customer environments and managing multi-site operations, as these are crucial for this role.

    Showcase Cultural Fit: Demonstrate your understanding of the company's values and culture in your application. Provide examples of how you've built high-performance teams and fostered a positive work environment in previous roles.

    How to prepare for a job interview at VIQU Ltd

    ✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Experience

    As a Managing Director, it's crucial to showcase your proven leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and driven performance in previous roles, particularly in product-based businesses.

    ✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision

    This role requires a clear strategy for growth and modernisation. Be ready to discuss your vision for the company and how you would implement changes to improve operations and drive commercial performance.

    ✨Understand the Business Landscape

    Familiarise yourself with the building materials and trade distribution sector. Research the company's position within the market and be prepared to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities that could impact their growth.

    ✨Emphasise Cultural Fit and Values

    The company values a culture of performance and shared values. Highlight your interpersonal skills and how you can contribute to building a positive and accountable management structure across sites.

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