Managing Director/COO

Managing Director / COO

Location:            Kirkby-in-Furness (Cumbria)

Salary:               Circa £100k - £130k Base + Bonus + Benefits (TBC)

Our client is a leading engineering company specialising in the design, manufacturing, testing, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of high-voltage protection and control equipment. As the MD/COO, the individual will be responsible for overseeing the overall operational and strategic direction of the company. This combined role requires a leader with the ability to shape and drive the company’s vision while ensuring seamless operational performance, alignment with strategic goals, and continual business growth. The role will focus on operational efficiency, business development, financial performance, and cultivating strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. The role will be pivotal in maintaining the company’s reputation for technical excellence, customer satisfaction, and superior product quality.

• Develop and execute a strategic vision in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Lead the senior management team to ensure alignment with the company’s goals and values.
• Drive organisational growth, profitability, and market positioning in line with long-term objectives.
• Maintain a keen focus on innovation, operational excellence, and technological advancements.
• Provide strong, inspirational leadership, fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and collaboration across all departments.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring the seamless execution of engineering, manufacturing, testing, installation, and maintenance services.
• Ensure that all operations meet or exceed industry standards and are compliant with relevant regulations and certifications.
• Continuously improve operational processes and procedures to maximise efficiency and minimise costs.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) across operations, ensuring alignment with budgetary and strategic objectives.
• Lead crisis management efforts when necessary, ensuring business continuity and minimising operational disruptions.
• Drive business development initiatives, identifying new markets and opportunities to expand the business footprint in the protection and control equipment sector.
• Maintain and develop long-term relationships with key customers, particularly UK electrical utilities, ensuring satisfaction and repeat business.
• Lead negotiations for high-value contracts, framework agreements, and partnerships, leveraging industry reputation to secure long-term, profitable business.
• Ensure that the tailored customer solutions continue to exceed expectations, reinforcing the company’s brand and competitive edge.
• Develop and manage the company’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability, profitability, and growth.
• Oversee financial performance and risk management, ensuring the company meets its financial objectives while remaining compliant with industry and regulatory requirements.
• Regularly review financial reports, cost structures, and resource allocations, making necessary adjustments to maintain optimal financial health.
• Lead initiatives to improve profitability, enhance return on investment, and reduce operational costs.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing leadership team, ensuring that talent at all levels is nurtured and retained.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development to keep at the forefront of technological and industry advancements.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organisation, ensuring that the business attracts and retains top talent.
• Ensure that all operations and products comply with international quality standards and certifications.
• Oversee the company’s accreditation processes and ensure compliance with customer-specific certifications and audit processes.
• Continuously assess and improve the quality management system, maintaining the business reputation for delivering superior products and services.
• Implement stringent safety and environmental standards across all operations.
• Regularly report to the Board of Directors on operational performance, financial health, strategic initiatives, and risk management.
• Act as the primary spokesperson, representing the company in industry forums, client meetings, and other public engagements.
• Maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment on key issues and decisions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role within an engineering or manufacturing environment, preferably in the high-voltage or the electrical utility sector.
• Strong operational management experience, with a proven track record of improving efficiency, productivity, and profitability.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a business strategically, balancing long-term growth with day-to-day operational excellence.
• Exceptional relationship management skills, with the ability to develop and sustain strong partnerships with clients, vendors, and stakeholders. Financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Strong problem-solving skills, capable of leading in crisis situations and making data-driven decisions.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulatory requirements related to high-voltage protection.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.