Divisional Managing Director

Hybrid – Home-based with national travel

Reports to: Group Managing Director

Division: Industrial Hose Manufacturing & Distribution

Direct Reports: Operational Business Managers & Divisional Support Functions

About the Role

Are you a commercially minded leader with a strong track record in industrial manufacturing, operational management, and strategic growth?

We’re looking for a Divisional Managing Director to take the lead of our Industrial Division – a dynamic business spanning 9 companies and 10 UK sites. In this role, you’ll drive the division’s performance across manufacturing, assembly, distribution, sales, and finance, while overseeing P&L, operational efficiency, and long-term growth strategy.

You’ll report to the Group MD and play a key role within our Group Senior Leadership Team (SLT), ensuring customer satisfaction, product quality, and a culture of safety and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Shape and execute long-term growth strategies.
• Identify new market and product opportunities.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and competitor activity.

Operational Excellence

• Guide daily operations across production, logistics, and distribution.
• Champion lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Uphold quality, health & safety, and environmental standards.

Financial Ownership

• Full P&L responsibility for the division.
• Lead annual budget planning and cost control initiatives.
• Negotiate key supply and distribution contracts.

Team Leadership

• Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing leadership team.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional development.
• Promote succession planning and workforce training.

Customer & Commercial Focus

• Cultivate strategic customer relationships.
• Work closely with sales teams to unlock full client potential.
• Drive sales performance and ensure exceptional service levels.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as MD, GM or senior operational leader in manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Strong commercial acumen with full P&L accountability.
• Experience with hose systems, fluid transfer, or similar technical/engineered products is desirable.
• Deep knowledge of supply chain, production, and sales operations.
• Understanding of ISO standards and H&S compliance.
• Degree in Engineering, Business, or related field (preferred).
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills.
• Driving licence and flexibility to travel/overnight stay as required.

Key Internal Stakeholders

• Operational Management Teams
• Group SLT and Business Leaders
• Support Teams (HR, Legal, IT, QSS, Marketing)

Key External Stakeholders

• Existing and prospective customers
• Parent Company (Diploma PLC)
• Professional advisors and certification bodies (ISO, BFPA)
• Key suppliers and service partners

Your Style & Capabilities

• Natural, inspiring leader with energy and optimism
• Strategic thinker with a commercial mindset
• Clear, confident communicator (written & verbal)
• Technically curious and solutions-focused
• Open-minded, transparent, and values-driven
• Comfortable leading through change in a fast-paced, agile environment

Additional Information

• National travel required
• Occasional overnight stays as part of the role

R&G Fluid Power Group is proud to be an inclusive employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and strive to ensure a fair recruitment process. You must be eligible to work in the UK.