Managing Director - Animal Feed Business (UK)

You're a seasoned General Manager, Managing Director or Commercial Director seeking to make a long-term commitment to a cohesive and financially secure business. In return, you'll enjoy loyalty and commitment, qualities that underpin this renowned, market-leader's culture.

This is an established business with a healthy balance sheet, continuous development plans, a supportive culture and a range of some of the UK's most recognised animal food brands.

As Managing Director, you'll lead the feed manufacturing business in addition to their wider portfolio of agricultural interests.

You might be from one of a broad spectrum of allied, agricultural industries.

Whether your background is in the livestock, aquaculture or equine feed, pet food, country pursuits or agricultural machinery sector, you'll have strong commercial credentials and experience of retail/wholesale distribution.  

 The people within this business tend to stay and relationships matter.

You will report the the Board of Directors. The right individual will have a wealth of support and expertise to draw upon in driving the strategic future of the company. The focus will be evolution rather than revolution.

 This role is available as part of the company's succession planning and you'll have the opportunity of a full handover with the current Managing Director.

 I want to talk to people who can demonstrate a strong track record in leading sales, marketing, brand management, finance, manufacturing, quality, logistics and health & safety.

Key responsibilities:

Develop, consult upon and execute the company's long-term strategic plan, in alignment with the Board of Director's vision and objectives.

Lead and inspire a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellent service, and accountability.

Drive sales and marketing initiatives to expand market share and capitalize on growth opportunities, including through retail and wholesale distribution channels. 

Establish and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and industry partners.

Oversee all aspects of operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and best practices.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, productivity, value, service levels and profitability.

Monitor market trends and competitor activity to identify risks and opportunities, and adjust strategies accordingly.

Uphold the company's people-focused ethos and champion core values of longevity and collaboration.

Maintain substantial physical presence across key sites to optimise operational and relationship management.

Your profile: 

Proven track record of success in a senior leadership role within (or closely related to) the agricultural industry.

Relevant degree as well as continued professional development. 

Experience of retail and/or wholesale distribution would be a clear advantage.

Strong commercial acumen, with well-rounded sales and marketing credentials.

Excellent strategic planning and execution skills, with a results-oriented mindset.

Strong leadership and interpersonal attributes, with the ability to inspire, collaborate and motivate.

Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

Solid understanding of regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Willingness to travel nationally (and occasionally, internationally) as required.

Your remuneration: 

Generous salary & package (inc. company vehicle and private health).

Enhanced pension.

Life assurance.

To apply:

For more information and an informal confidential discussion please call Jon Handley on: Office 01885 485522 or e-mail your CV and covering letter to jon.handley@delacyexecutive.co.uk

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