General Manager GenMan_1765366311 Posted: 10/12/2025 General ManagerAn exceptional leadership opportunity within a respected, growing manufacturing business - with long-term progression and potential equity participation for the right candidate.Daniel Owen are recruiting for a well-established and expanding bespoke joinery manufacturer located in Derbyshire. Operating across the Midlands and wider UK, the business has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality bespoke joinery, certified fire doors, and heritage restoration work. Their customer base includes leading contractors, architects, heritage specialists, and private clients.Location: DerbyshirePosition: General ManagerSalary: £65,000 - £70,000 per annum + Car allowance + performance bonusContract Type: PermanentAvailability: This role is immediately availableThe company is part of a dynamic and ambitious group of specialist construction and manufacturing businesses. Following significant investment and an agenda of operational improvement and growth, the organisation is entering a pivotal phase. To support this next stage, the Group is seeking a high-calibre General Manager with strong commercial capability and operational leadership experience.The RoleThe General Manager will play a central role in running and developing the business. This is a hands-on, commercially focused position that requires deep involvement in day-to-day commercial activity - including quoting, pricing, tendering, surveying, and client relationship management - as well as oversight of operational performance.You will lead and develop a team of approximately 50 employees across the workshop, office, and on-site installation teams. Working closely with the Group Managing Director and Group Finance Director, you will be accountable for P&L delivery, operational efficiency, cultural development, and driving sustainable, profitable growth.This role is ideally suited to an individual who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment and who enjoys balancing commercial leadership with operational oversight.Key ResponsibilitiesCommercial LeadershipLead and manage all commercial processes including quoting, pricing strategies, surveying, design coordination, tender submissions, and contract negotiationDevelop and maintain strong relationships with key customers, acting as the senior commercial point of contact for the businessReview and refine pricing models, margin controls, and commercial reporting to enhance profitabilitySupport the Group in identifying new markets, sectors, and strategic opportunities to grow pipeline and market presenceProvide oversight of production planning, scheduling, workflow management, and installation deliveryEnsure operational processes are robust, scalable, and aligned with best practiceDrive improvements in manufacturing efficiency, quality assurance, customer service, and project deliveryPromote and embed a culture of continuous improvement, reducing waste and enhancing output across the businessLead approximately 50 employees across production, office support, commercial teams, and site-based installation staffPromote a high-performance culture built on accountability, pride in craftsmanship, and ownership of resultsMentor and support supervisors and managers, ensuring strong communication and effective cross-departmental collaborationSet clear objectives, monitor performance, and implement structured development pathways for staffOwn full P&L responsibility for the business, working closely with Group leadership to set budgets and deliver on financial targetsImplement strategic initiatives aligned with Group priorities, including systems improvements, commercial innovation, and operational optimisationAnalyse performance data and provide robust, evidence-based recommendations to the Group Managing DirectorRepresent the business at Group level, contributing to wider decision-making and future growth strategiesEssential Experience & SkillsSignificant commercial experience within the bespoke joinery, manufacturing, or specialist construction sectorBackground in a joinery operation, with proven results in pricing, tendering, and margin improvementStrong leadership experience, ideally managing mixed teams across workshop, office, and siteDemonstrable experience implementing systems or improving processes (e.g. CRM, ERP, pricing tools, workflow management systems)Highly organised, detail-oriented, and disciplined in planning and follow-throughPersonal AttributesCommercially astute with a data-driven approach to decision-makingHands-on, practical, and approachable, with a willingness to get involved at all levelsClear and confident communicator who builds strong internal and external relationshipsCalm, structured, and solutions-focused, even under pressureA natural leader who inspires confidence, trust, and accountability across the workforceHow to Apply:
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