RR
Managing Director – Drainage, Groundworks & Utilities
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Managing Director – Drainage, Groundworks & Utilities
Managing Director – Hands-on SME Leadership
Lead the Business. Shape the Future. Build on 50+ Years of Success.
About the Role
Are you a commercially minded operator with deep experience in field-based service delivery across sectors like drainage, utilities, groundworks, construction, civil engineering, infrastructure maintenance or a closely related discipline?
We seek a hands-on Managing Director to guide a highly respected, 50-plus-year-old SME into its next phase, inheriting a loyal customer base, skilled workforce, and growth potential.
This exceptional succession opportunity requires a leader who combines strategic vision with operational realism—someone who can engage with the Board on growth strategy while also resolving site challenges, health & safety, logistics and customer delivery on the ground.
The Opportunity Summary
- Persept: Motivated leader to build on the company’s legacy.
- Scale: Profitable, established SME with specialism in commercial & industrial drainage & maintenance.
- Outlook: Potential for service diversification, market expansion, acquisitions & partnerships.
- Key Challenge: Facilitate leadership succession while driving sustainable growth & operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute the business’ strategy, vision and growth roadmap.
- Scout new markets, services and partnerships to diversify and expand.
- Guide the Board in shaping the future of the company.
Commercial Growth
- Drive revenue growth, profitability and commercial success.
- Lead business development, key account management and major tenders.
- Negotiate strategic partnerships and large-scale contracts.
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Financial Management
- Ensure strong financial controls and investment planning.
- Ensure compliance with external advisors and maintain stability.
Operational Leadership
- Oversee daily SME operations in a field-based service environment.
- Align people, equipment, logistics and resources optimally.
- Foster operational efficiency and continuous improvement.
People & Culture
- Inspire and develop an experienced, long-serving team.
- Instill a culture of accountability, collaboration and resilience.
- Champion growth and succession planning.
Governance & Compliance
- Maintain health & safety, risk management and industry regulations.
- Provide regular reporting to the Board on performance and compliance.
Essential & Desirable Attributes
What You’ll Bring
✅ Senior leadership in SMEs, contractor environments, or related sectors. ✅ Commercial acumen with profitability and revenue ownership experience. ✅ Operations focus, with experience leading frontline, site-based or field teams and earning their respect. ✅ Practical leadership — ideally involvement in hands-on roles earlier in your career. ✅ Strong skills in business development, stakeholder management and contract negotiation. ✅ Deep understanding of health & safety, compliance and risk management. ✅ Charismatic leadership, with the ability to drive transformation while retaining engagement.
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Desirable (But Not Mandatory)
✔ Experience in drainage, utilities or construction-related fields. ┹ Track record of growth through acquisitions, diversification or new service expansion. ❓ Familiarity with regulated or environmental sectors. ❓ NEBOSH, IOSH or equivalent safety qualifications. ✔ Prior experience managing depot/vehicle/equipment-intensive operations.
Your Impact at This Business
- Collaborate with the Board to shaping a high-growth trajectory.
- Embracing succession while steering expansion and cultural evolution.
- Transforming operations while maintaining a trusted customer footprint.
- Legacy-building: Leave a reputation for operational excellence, innovation and trust.
Location & Compensation
- Base: Berkshire/Buckinghamshire border area.
- Salary: £85,000 – £90,000 plus full executive benefits.
- Contract: Full-time permanent.
- Board: Reports directly to the Chairman & Board of Directors.
Why Apply?
This is a rare, high-impact opportunity for a leader who:
- Thrives in operational environments.
- Values sustained longevity and customer trust.
- Believes in strategic boldness with stability.
- Wants to leave a sustenable legacy.
If this resonates, we’d love to hear from you.
Application Note
Data processing for this recruitment process is handled by RR (Recruitment Revolution). For privacy details: RR Data Privacy Policy.
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