Managing Director – Food Manufacturing

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Managing Director to lead a well‑established food manufacturing business in North East England. You will be responsible for setting the strategic direction, driving commercial growth and ensuring operational excellence across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic business plan to achieve sustainable growth and profitability.
• Lead, inspire and develop the senior leadership team, fostering a high‑performance culture.
• Take full ownership of P&L performance, budgets and financial management.
• Drive sales growth by supporting commercial strategy and strengthening customer relationships.
• Ensure operational excellence across manufacturing, production, warehousing and supply‑chain activities.
• Maintain compliance with food safety, health & safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
• Deliver continuous improvements in efficiency, cost control and productivity.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, stakeholders and group colleagues.
• Develop future talent, succession plans and organisational capability.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Managing Director or Business Unit Leader within food manufacturing.
• Strong commercial awareness with demonstrable P&L responsibility.
• Experience leading multi‑disciplinary teams across manufacturing and commercial functions.
• Excellent financial acumen and ability to drive profitable growth.
• Strong sales and customer relationship management experience.
• Outstanding leadership, communication and influencing skills.

Required skills

• Strategic planning and execution
• Financial management and budgeting
• Operational excellence in manufacturing
• Regulatory compliance (food safety, health & safety)
• Team leadership and development

What we offer

• Salary £80,000 – £100,000 per year
• Car allowance
• Performance‑based bonus
• Pension scheme and life assurance