Managing Director/MD Designate
Wiltshire
Overview
Our client is a market-leading designer and manufacturer of bespoke protective packaging supporting clients across multiple sectors—but primarily those exporting high-value equipment and goods.
The business is an SME with huge growth potential and long-standing relationships, including international clients with important partners in the US and Germany. The business is entering an exciting new phase following acquisition by a major German corporation. While the company will continue to operate autonomously, the acquisition brings significant investment potential, including facility expansion or relocation and enhanced strategic capability.
This role is to replace their current Managing Director who wants to step away from the role in early 2027 at latest.
The Role
Managing Director/ MD Designate will be responsible for taking over from the current Managing Director following a transition period and will be accountable for driving the overall business performance. There is a significant opportunity for someone to take control of a successful and well-respected business, with enormous growth potential and new investment.
The incoming candidate will work closely with the current MD and leadership team to:
* Drive commercial growth and strategic development
* Enhance operational and financial performance
* Build a scalable platform for future expansion
* Ultimately assume full leadership of the business as Managing Director
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
You will need to demonstrate experience of the following:
Experience
* Proven track record of growing and developing businesses, divisions, or business units with turnover in the £10m–£40m range
* Strong commercial leadership experience, including sales strategy, business development, and revenue growth
* Background in manufacturing, with the ability to understand and manage production environments
* Experience working within or alongside international organisations is highly desirable
* Exposure to private equity, acquisitions, or integration environments would be advantageous
Skills & Capabilities
* Highly commercial mindset with strong strategic thinking ability
* Demonstrated ability to deliver growth in underdeveloped or opportunity-rich businesses
* Strong financial acumen and P&L management experience
* Operational understanding with the ability to balance sales ambition and delivery capability
* Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
PERSON SPECIFICATION
* Committed to the Company’s success and vision, as well as their own success.
* Credible and authentic leader who inspires confidence and accountability.
* Strategic thinker with the ability to translate requirements into practical execution.
* Proactive, resilient, and solutions oriented.
* Clear and influential communicator, comfortable engaging at all organisational levels.
* Collaborative approach that builds strong cross-functional partnerships.
* Customer-focused with sound professional judgement.
* Passionate about developing people and strengthening teams.
* Consistently demonstrates and upholds company values.
LOCATION OF THE ROLE
Wiltshire, flexible package up to £130,000 plus package.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Our client is a well-respected and industry leading business with significant growth potential. The business is going through an exciting period of change and growth. This appointment will enjoy significant levels of autonomy and support while enjoying a stimulating and rewarding high profile role within a company passionate about making a difference.