Job Description
Managing Director
Manchester
Engineering Business
£120,000 + Company Car + Bonus + Private Health
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Managing Director to lead a highly specialised Engineering SME operating within the military and defence sector.
The business operates an approx. £8m P&L, and serves long-standing defence customers.
The Managing Director will lead six direct reports across Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, and HR.
The Role
The Managing Director will provide strong, hands-on leadership, strategic direction, and commercial focus. With a clear mandate to deliver turnaround and growth, the MD will strengthen customer relationships, drive operational excellence, and align the business with board objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead a business turnaround, implementing strategy aligned with board and shareholder objectives.
* Strengthen market presence and customer relationships with Ministry of Defence, Defence Equipment & Support, and key industry partners.
* Oversee all operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, quality standards, and on-time contract delivery.
* Drive commercial growth, customer engagement, and new business development.
* Provide strong leadership across all functions, fostering accountability, performance, and collaboration.
* Represent the company at client meetings, industry events, and strategic forums.
* Ensure robust financial management, cost control, and operational efficiency.
Candidate Profile
* Senior leadership experience (Managing Director, CEO, or equivalent), ideally within an SME or mid-sized defence organisation.
* Deep knowledge of the UK defence industry, procurement processes, regulations, and key stakeholders.
* Proven track record of business turnaround, restructuring, or strategic realignment in an SME environment.
* Strong commercial acumen with experience managing complex defence contracts.
* An Engineering background would be beneficial.
* Ability to lead change, inspire teams, and manage diverse stakeholder relationships.
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
* Detail-oriented, hands-on leadership style.