Managing Director – Industrial & Manufacturing

Role overview

This executive position is responsible for steering the organization’s industrial and manufacturing agenda with a focus on operational excellence, strategic growth, and long-term profitability. The role calls for a seasoned leader who can shape direction, improve efficiency, and ensure that business decisions stay aligned with broader organizational objectives.

The Managing Director will bring deep sector experience to influence leadership decisions, strengthen governance, and build a performance-driven environment that supports continuous improvement and innovation. The position also requires the ability to collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders, adopt technology-led improvements, and manage business complexity in a regulated and changing market.

Key responsibilities

• Create and execute a strategic roadmap that supports the company’s mission while promoting sustainable growth across industrial and manufacturing operations.
• Direct day-to-day organizational performance and make sure all departments operate efficiently and meet established targets.
• Champion innovation by reviewing new technologies and introducing effective operational practices into manufacturing processes.
• Define and track performance measures tied to strategic priorities, using regular monitoring to drive ongoing improvement.
• Develop a high-achieving leadership culture by coaching senior managers and expanding leadership development across the organization.
• Lead risk identification and mitigation efforts while ensuring adherence to sector regulations and standards.
• Build productive relationships with government bodies, industry groups, and community stakeholders to strengthen the organization’s standing.
• Oversee budgeting and financial priorities, balancing cost control with business objectives.
• Represent the organization at industry events, conferences, and stakeholder discussions, positioning it as a respected voice in the sector.
• Analyze market developments continuously to spot growth opportunities and adjust plans to preserve competitive advantage.

Experience and capability requirements

• At least 15 years of experience in senior leadership roles within industrial or manufacturing settings, with evidence of managing complex operations.
• Background in designing and delivering strategic initiatives that improve revenue and operational performance.
• Proven success in leading major change programs in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain operations, production workflows, and lean manufacturing practices.
• Solid financial understanding, including budgeting, forecasting, and KPI development.
• Ability to maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, regulators, and other key stakeholders.
• Good understanding of health, safety, and environmental compliance in manufacturing.
• Experience handling risk and resolving crises in challenging situations.
• Excellent negotiation ability and influence across multiple organizational levels.
• Track record of building effective teams and promoting accountability, empowerment, and collaboration.

Additional information

This role requires a strategic mindset, strong governance capability, and the ability to work through regulatory complexity and market volatility. The organization is seeking a leader who can balance operational discipline with innovation, while maintaining a clear focus on sustainable growth, resilience, and profitability.

Skills

Strategic leadership, operational management, financial planning, change management, supply chain management, manufacturing operations, stakeholder engagement, risk management, negotiation, project coordination, analytical decision-making, regulatory compliance