Managing Director

Managing Director | Aerospace & Defence | United Kingdom

We have been retained on the appointment of a Managing Director to lead the UK business of an international aerospace and defence group, with full P&L ownership and a direct line into Group leadership.

Ownership of a business, with the reach of an international group behind it. A differentiated operation with a clear growth agenda, at a scale where one leader's decisions show up in the results.

Alias Executive Search & Consulting, we advise aerospace and defence organisations on senior leadership appointments across the UK, Europe and international markets. Our work is supported by an extensive network of executives, industry specialists and decision-makers across OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, advanced manufacturing businesses and the wider supply chain.

A specialist manufacturer supplying safety-critical components and advanced process capabilities to the aerospace supply chain, with established relationships across OEM and Tier 1 customers.

Operating within a highly regulated environment, the business holds the specialist approvals and process accreditations required by its market, giving it a differentiated position within its segment.

The agenda is clear: strengthen operational performance, deepen strategic customer relationships and build a platform for sustainable, profitable growth.

• Assume full ownership of the P&L and define the business strategy in alignment with Group objectives
• Raise performance across manufacturing, quality, engineering and supply chain
• Strengthen OEM and Tier 1 relationships and secure new programmes across civil aerospace, defence and MRO
• Lead the introduction of new technologies, automation and advanced manufacturing capabilities
• Build, develop and retain a high-performing leadership team
• Maintain uncompromising standards across quality, compliance, safety and operational governance
• THE PROFILE
• 15+ years of experience within aerospace or defence manufacturing, including at least five years in senior general management or P&L leadership
• Demonstrable P&L ownership, with accountability for commercial as well as operational outcomes
• Strong knowledge of AS9100, NADCAP and the requirements of regulated aerospace manufacturing
• Proven experience of continuous improvement methodologies, including Lean and Kaizen
• Experience with ERP platforms such as SAP or an equivalent system
• Degree in engineering, business or a related discipline; an MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification would be advantageous
• Experience operating within an international Group structure is strongly preferred

Strategic, but operationally credible. Decisive, commercially astute and visible to the people they lead.