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Managing Director

Carlisle Permanent View Job Description
We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Managing Director to lead and grow a dynamic food business based in Carlisle. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the food sector and a proven track record of driving growth across retail, foodservice, and B2B manufacturing channels.
  • Commercial MD role for SME supplying fresh and frozen products into UK market
  • Opportunity to lead the UK entity of a global a business in a period of growth

About Our Client

One of Europe's largest privately owned food producers, this company operates across more than 70 global markets and employs over 4,000 people. Headquartered in Europe, it runs advanced manufacturing facilities in multiple countries and supplies major international retailers and distributors. Known for its vertically integrated model, the business controls everything from production to logistics, ensuring quality and responsiveness. It holds certifications for food safety and sustainability and is recognised for its innovation and commitment to responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship. Their UK HQ is based in Carlisle.

Job Description

Managing Director FMCG🧭 Strategic Leadership

  • Develop and execute the company's commercial strategy to drive revenue and margin growth.
  • Lead cross-functional teams to deliver operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
  • Represent the business externally with key stakeholders, customers, and partners.



💼 Commercial & Sales Growth

  • Own and expand relationships with major retailers, foodservice distributors, and B2B manufacturers.
  • Identify new market opportunities and lead product innovation aligned with customer needs.
  • Oversee pricing, margin management, and contract negotiations.



📊 Financial & Operational Oversight

  • Deliver against financial targets including revenue, EBITDA, and working capital.
  • Collaborate with finance and operations to ensure efficient supply chain and cost control.
  • Monitor KPIs and implement performance improvement initiatives.



👥 Team Leadership & Culture

  • Build and inspire a high-performing commercial and operational team.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Champion talent development and succession planning



The Successful Applicant

This hands on FMCG Managing Director role requires candidates who are comfortable leading sales teams and negotiating retailer relationships, this would suit someone in a CCO role looking for their first move into an MD/CEO role.

  • Proven leadership experience in the food industry, ideally in chilled, ambient, or frozen categories.
  • Strong commercial background with success in retail, foodservice, and B2B channels.
  • Experience managing P&L and delivering sustainable growth.
  • Strategic thinker with hands-on commercial acumen.
  • Excellent relationship builder and communicator.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with a bias for action.
  • Comfortable in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
  • Experience in branded and private label products.
  • Familiarity with retailer dynamics (e.g., Aldi, Tesco, foodservice wholesalers).
  • Understanding of manufacturing operations and supply chain.
  • This role is based out of the HQ in Carlisle, candidates are expected there 3 x per week.



What's on Offer

  • Competitive basic salary + performance related bonus
  • £200,000 overall package
Contact
Louise Shepherd
Quote job ref
JN-112025-6875022
Phone number
+44 11 6282 1560

Job summary

Job function
Sales
Subsector
FMCG & Consumer
Sector
FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods)
Location
Carlisle
Contract type
Permanent
Consultant name
Louise Shepherd
Consultant phone
+44 11 6282 1560
Job reference
JN-112025-6875022