Description

We are working exclusively to appoint a Managing Director on behalf of a well-established, independently operated business within the water, civils and infrastructure sector.

The business holds a strong market position, an excellent client base, and a proven track record of delivering complex infrastructure programmes.

This is a rare opportunity for a senior leader to take full strategic, commercial and operational ownership of a business approaching £100m turnover - with genuine ambition and the platform to grow further.

As Managing Director you will be the most senior leader in the business, chairing the board and carrying full accountability for:

• Developing and executing the medium-term strategy and annual business plan
• Driving sustainable growth, profitability and commercial performance
• Leading, motivating and developing a high-performing leadership team of circa 10 direct reports
• Maintaining and growing relationships with clients, partners and key stakeholders
• Overseeing financial performance including P&L, budgeting, forecasting and risk management
• Embedding a high-performance, safety-first culture aligned with the company's values and heritage
• Operating within a Group framework while retaining full accountability for outcomes and execution
• Ensuring compliance with UK regulations, management system accreditations and governance requirements

You will be a chartered engineer (Engineering Council) and a member or fellow of a relevant professional body. You will bring:

• A strong track record in a senior leadership role - ideally as Managing Director, Deputy MD or equivalent - within water or broader civil engineering
• Proven experience managing a P&L at scale and driving commercial performance in a project-based business
• A genuine ability to lead, inspire and develop teams, creating an inclusive culture where people thrive
• Credibility and an established network with clients, frameworks and stakeholders at the highest level
• Experience as a statutory director with awareness of associated fiduciary responsibilities
• A business-development mindset - able to identify, evaluate and pursue growth opportunities
• Resilience and adaptability in navigating complexity, risk and uncertainty

• Rare whole-business MD accountability - not a divisional or functional role
• A business with strong foundations, a 100-year heritage and ambitions to grow
• An engaged and supportive parent group providing resources, expertise and strategic backing
• A collaborative and people-first culture with a genuine commitment to technical excellence