Managing Director

Overview

As Managing Director, you steer strategic direction, operational excellence, and commercial performance for an automotive aftermarket manufacturer with UK base and European footprint. You will drive EBITDA and sales growth, cash generation, and capital investments, balancing hands-on leadership with long-term strategy. The role entails full P&L ownership, cross-functional leadership, and multi-site oversight in a growth- and transformation-focused business. You will shape the company’s evolution through organic growth and acquisitions within a global brand context.

Responsibilities

• set and execute strategic direction and growth agenda
• drive EBITDA growth, cash generation and operational excellence
• own P&L and oversee income statement, balance sheet, and all functional activities
• lead multi-site and multi-country European operations
• manage acquisitions and organic growth initiatives
• navigate private equity-backed or performance-driven environments
• lead stakeholder communications and governance from boardroom to shop floor
• travel domestically and internationally as required

Key requirements

• Degree in Business, Engineering, or a related discipline; MBA preferred
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing
• 5+ years at executive level within automotive aftermarket or related engineered products
• proven track record with full P&L accountability
• experience in private equity-backed or performance-driven settings
• strong operational and commercial acumen with a strategic mindset
• deep understanding of international operations, supply chain, and regulatory frameworks
• inspirational leadership with excellent communication and stakeholder management
• experience leading multi-site and multi-country European operations
• hands-on leader capable of operating from boardroom to shop floor
• willingness to travel domestically and internationally

• leadership presence
• excellent communication
• influencing and stakeholder management
• P&L management
• supply chain management
• operational excellence

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