Chief Executive Officer
Location: UK-based, with a need to be in London two days per week
Travel: UK-wide, with some international commitments
Sector: Advanced Manufacturing, Automation & Technology
Frankland Automation have been appointed as the exclusive search partner for this position.
About the Organisation
We’re representing a long-established UK trade association at the forefront of the country’s advanced manufacturing and automation sectors. The organisation supports a diverse membership base spanning engineering, robotics, process automation, and technology innovation.
With a strong reputation for delivering industry-leading events, technical insight, and policy influence, the association plays a vital role in championing the adoption of automation and smart manufacturing across the UK.
This is a rare opportunity to lead an influential membership organisation with deep sector roots and a mission to accelerate industrial innovation.
The Role
As Chief Executive Officer, you’ll lead the strategic, operational, and representational direction of the association. Working closely with an elected Board of Directors, you’ll set the vision, shape policy, and drive member engagement across the UK and beyond.
You’ll oversee a multi-disciplinary executive team, ensuring excellence across operations, events, marketing, finance, and technical programmes — while representing the organisation to industry partners, government stakeholders, and the media.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Develop and deliver a clear organisational vision, supported by measurable short-, medium-, and long-term goals.
* Drive membership growth across existing and emerging technology sectors.
* Oversee implementation of strategic initiatives across events, public affairs, and technical activities.
* Report regularly to the Board, ensuring transparency, accountability, and alignment with long-term objectives.
Operational & Team Management
* Provide leadership across core business functions including marketing, operations, publishing, finance, and HR.
* Ensure strong governance, compliance, and resource management across the organisation.
* Represent the association at conferences, exhibitions, and member events nationwide.
Public Affairs & External Relations
* Shape and oversee the organisation’s public affairs and advocacy agenda.
* Build relationships with policymakers, government departments, and allied industry groups.
* Promote the benefits of automation and industrial technology to strengthen UK competitiveness.
* Act as the organisation’s public spokesperson, articulating its vision and representing member interests.
Candidate Profile
Essential
* Proven leadership experience at senior or executive level within a trade body, technology association, or industrial organisation.
* Strong understanding of advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, or related industrial technology sectors.
* Demonstrated success in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and operational leadership.
* Financial acumen and experience overseeing multi-disciplinary teams.
* Excellent communication, influence, and public speaking skills.
Desirable
* Experience in business development, membership growth, or funding strategies.
* Knowledge of industry representation, lobbying, or policy engagement.
* Educated to degree level or equivalent in a relevant discipline.
* Experience with governance or leadership training is beneficial.
Personal Attributes
* Inspiring and approachable leader who enjoys developing teams.
* Confident communicator capable of engaging at senior industry and government levels.
* Flexible and willing to travel throughout the UK and occasionally overseas.
Why Apply
This is an opportunity to lead a respected national organisation driving innovation and industrial growth within the UK’s technology landscape. The successful candidate will play a central role in shaping the future of British manufacturing and automation, influencing both industry direction and national policy.