Northern head office, with travel throughout their trading region

This is an excellent opportunity to join the senior team of this market-leading business. They have a successful track record of growth combined with an exciting strategy for the future.  This position of Operations Director will work closely with the senior team and indeed all colleagues with direct responsibility for Transport, Health & Safety, the Distribution Centre and Branches, via Regional Directors.

This is a key role and needless to say a very important piece of recruitment with a desire for a successful long-term appointment.

Personality type and cultural fit are even more important than the company’s potential candidates have worked for. The senior team (and indeed the entire business) would benefit from someone with high levels of intellect and drive with an ability to challenge colleagues to ensure the business achieves its desired results. Given the breadth and commercial complexities of the role we also require someone with excellent communication skills: internally and externally.

Potential candidates should be/have:

  • Extensive experience with a successful track record in a similar role (although we’re also open to someone with the right ability stepping up to this level for the first time)
  • A broad operational background encompassing multi-site branch operations, transport, distribution centre and Health & Safety
  • Know how to maximise trading and margin opportunities: Delivering that strategy through diverse teams
  • A good understanding of how such a business works. B2B multi-depot, multi-products into a variety of project types across the construction industry.  Experience in a builders merchant is of course, highly desirable
  • Experience with e-commerce as well as traditional branch-based trading is also highly desirable
  • An appreciation of the balance between providing an excellent service whilst improving the margin
  • An inspiring and engaging leadership style, creating confidence and demonstrating credibility
  • An ability to work at pace and successfully develop and deliver the operational strategy
  • An appreciation of the nature of a privately owned business with a long history and long-serving employees
  • Located within or be easily commutable/relocatable to a Northern head office and be able to travel throughout the region and indeed across the UK to visit suppliers and attend conferences and exhibitions. This is a visible leadership role; an ivory tower or fully remote approach will not work!

The Bottom Line

This is not a turnaround situation, nor does it require a revolution. It’s about building on what you have, improving it and identifying further areas for growth. The business is well-placed with a capable senior team.

There is a competitive salary, bonus and benefits package. To apply please send your CV to nick@wilsonbrook.com