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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