Managing Director

Barron Williams are delighted to be retained to deliver this key search and selection instruction for our client, a leading specialist economic research firm. Based in Newcastle upon Tyne, they have bold but realistic ambitions to be the premier provider of independent macroeconomic research to financial market professionals around the world. Owner–led, their work focuses on the United States, Eurozone, U.K., Asia and Latin America, assessing and forecasting the impact of global economic and market developments. In essence, the business provides their clients with actionable, research–based economic intelligence which is published daily and is available by subscription only. Banks, hedge funds, pension funds and other investors such as corporate treasuries rely on our clients unbiased research for direct, clear analysis and forecasts, firmly grounded in data. Currently, they are a team of just under 30 people and sales this year will be close to GBP6m. This exciting B2B services business is growing fast, and very profitably. A key part of the owners plan is the recruitment of a Managing Director to lead the day–to–day business operations and the implementation of the business long–term strategy. A professional, experienced business manager , you will manage the continued rapid growth of the firm, ensuring that functions and processes evolve ahead of changing business needs. You will be expert in both managing and structuring a growing business to maximise value and optimise the owners future options. The position is primarily office–based in Newcastle with frequent travel to London and occasional travel to New York. A highly attractive package will be offered to the right candidate, including substantial equity–based reward aligned to the business plan. This is a highly positive and critical appointment for the business. Job Title: Managing Director Location: NE England Reports to: Board / Exec Business Owners Functional Reports: Sales / Operations / Finance / HR / IT / Marketing & Sales Support Package: Negotiable salary + benefits, performance–related bonus and equity–based reward Key Responsibilities and Deliverables: Co–ordinate business functions and develop appropriate business processes to deliver the strategic goals Lead the business through the planned sales growth, co–ordinating efforts in both London and New York Project manage key IT initiatives, inc. systems development & implementation via third party partners Prepare the business to be able to exercise future strategic options, including potential sale Ensure key risk management systems and processes are robust (e.g., Data Protection, Disaster Planning) Develop the marketing strategy and execute appropriate tactics to further accelerate business growth As a member of the Finance Board, contribute to financial and strategic planning Candidate Profile Requirements: Business management expert with relevant business services experience, ideally in fast–growth settings Experienced SME friendly Managing Director (or strategic General Manager) or commercial COO / CFO Broad business management track record of co–ordinating functions and leading high performing teams Commercial and focused understands IP–based services and how to maximise their value proposition Clearly able to develop robust and expandable business functions for and through rapid growth The ideal candidate would also have experience of preparing similar SME businesses for ultimate sale As an individual – strategic but hands–on, down to earth, collaborative, pragmatic and engaging Apply in confidence via the link provided or contact Paul Barron on the contact number provided for a confidential exploratory discussion