An exceptional opportunity has arisen for a hands-on, commercially driven and highly ambitious Managing Director to lead a new start‑up in Leeds specialising in large‑scale conferences. We are seeking top-tier talent, and for the right individual the financial upside is significant.
As Managing Director, you will hold full end‑to‑end responsibility for building, leading and scaling a portfolio of major UK events. You will shape the strategic direction, build a high‑performing team, and turn the founders’ vision into a thriving, profitable business.
You will take a high‑level concept and transform it into a commercially successful operation, overseeing the launch and growth of multiple large‑scale conferences. Reporting directly to the owner, you will have the autonomy to develop the business case, set budgets, design the programme, build the team and deliver outstanding events that set new industry benchmarks.
Responsibilities
* Develop the event outline, key deliverables and programme in partnership with the Owner
* Lead the overall strategy, operations and commercial performance of the events portfolio
* Translate a high‑level vision into profitable, scalable conferences
* Oversee planning, launch and execution of multiple large‑scale events
* Build, develop and lead senior teams across operations, content, sales and marketing
* Collaborate closely with central sales, marketing and finance functions to maximise performance
* Ensure all events are delivered to exceptional quality standards, on time and on budget
* Drive revenue growth, profitability and long‑term enterprise value
* Create a scalable business model with a clear pathway to exit within 3–5 years
Requirements
* Operating at MD or CEO level within a profitable, high‑performing organisation
* Proven track record of building and scaling successful businesses; experience in events or conferencing is highly advantageous
* Inspirational leadership style with the ability to build, motivate and retain high‑performing teams
* Strong commercial acumen with a focus on ROI and sustainable growth
* Hands‑on, decisive and highly organised, with the ability to operate at pace
* Primarily office‑based in Leeds; applicants must live within a one‑hour commute
* Excellent stakeholder management skills and the ability to handle conflict professionally
* Able to prioritise a demanding workload and committed to the hard work required to scale a start‑up to a profitable exit
* Self‑motivated, ambitious and exceptionally driven
What’s in it for you
* Senior leadership role with full operational autonomy
* Salary in the region of £150,000–£200,000, depending on experience
* Performance‑related annual bonus tied to business success
* Long‑term equity participation, subject to performance and tenure
* The opportunity to build a business from the ground up
* A fast‑paced, entrepreneurial environment with significant personal and financial upside
* Free onsite parking
Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to provide individual feedback. If you have not heard from us within five days, please assume your application has not been successful. By applying, you consent to Jo Holdsworth Recruitment holding your details for 30 days and contacting you via the methods provided. (Jo Holdsworth Recruitment – Recruitment Agency)