A Genuine Second-in-Command Opportunity for a Proven Operational Leader
DUE TO THE NATURE OF THIS RECRUITMENT CONSULTANCY, WE ARE ONLY ABLE TO REPRESENT INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE EX MILITARY.
This is not a standard General Manager position.
We are recruiting a true 2IC to work directly alongside the Business Owner, taking day-to-day control of operations while helping shape the long-term direction of the company. Over time, the role is intended to evolve into a Managing Director-level position for the right individual.
This opportunity is ideally suited to a high-calibre operational leader with a military background who has successfully transitioned into civilian industry and is now looking for a broader leadership challenge.
You may currently be working in manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, engineering, supply chain, transport, or operational management and be ready for the next step, moving from departmental leadership into full business leadership.
We are looking for someone who can lead people, improve performance, bring structure to operations, and act as a trusted right-hand to the Owner.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Business Owner, you will play a central role in running and growing the business.
You will oversee daily operations across multiple departments, drive operational improvements, manage performance, and help build a strong, accountable culture across the company.
This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on operational delivery. You’ll be expected to think commercially, solve problems quickly, and lead from the front.
For the right person, this is a long-term succession opportunity with a clear pathway toward Managing Director responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Take ownership of the day-to-day running of the business
- Lead department heads across, Warehouse & Logistics, Procurement & Supply Chain, Customer Service, Finance and Digital & E-Commerce
- Ensure operational performance, service delivery, and efficiency targets are achieved
- Identify operational bottlenecks and implement practical improvements
Business & Commercial Performance
- Work alongside the Owner to deliver the company’s growth plans
- Support budget management, cost control, and profitability targets
- Help drive improvements across systems, processes, and overall business performance
- Monitor operational KPIs and ensure accountability across teams
People & Culture
- Build a high-performance culture based on accountability, professionalism, and teamwork
- Mentor and develop managers across the business
- Support recruitment and long-term staff development
- Help create a stable, structured, and positive working environment
Health, Safety & Standards
- Maintain high operational and Health & Safety standards across the business
- Ensure warehouse and logistics operations run efficiently and safely
- Promote a culture of ownership and continuous improvement
This role is particularly well suited to:
- Former Senior NCOs or Officers who have transitioned successfully into civilian industry
- Ex-military leaders currently working in operations, logistics, manufacturing, engineering, warehousing, or supply chain environments
- Individuals ready to move from functional management into wider business leadership
- Leaders who prefer action, accountability, and operational delivery over corporate politics
What matters most is:
-Leadership credibility
- Operational capability
- Commercial awareness
- The ability to manage people and drive standards
- Calm decision-making under pressure
- A hands-on approach to problem solving
Ideal Experience
- Proven experience leading teams in operational environments
- Background in logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, engineering, or supply chain
- Experience managing managers and multiple departments
- Strong organisational and planning capability
- Financial awareness including budgets and operational cost control
- Experience improving systems, workflows, or operational processes
- Comfortable working closely with a business owner or senior leadership team
Experience with ERP systems or operational software platforms would be advantageous.
This is a rare chance to join a growing business in a genuine second-in-command position with:
- Significant autonomy
- Direct exposure to business ownership
- Long-term progression potential
- Clear succession opportunity into a Managing Director-level role
- A chance to shape the future of the business
Package
- £65,000 – £80,000 depending on experience
- Performance-related bonus potential as well as
- Altrincham location
- Long-term progression and succession opportunity
- Senior leadership position with genuine influence
If you’re an operational leader looking for a role where your leadership experience, judgement, and ability to deliver truly matter, we’d like to hear from you.
For more information, please contact Jean-Claude Hedouin at Ex-Mil Recruitment Ltd on (phone number removed)
Salary description
£65000.00 - £80000.00 per year