Managing Director / CEO – Building Materials / Trade Distribution – Midlands – £70k–£80k + Bonus + Equity Potential

VIQU are proud to be supporting a highly respected, privately owned business in their search for a commercially focused Managing Director / CEO to lead the next stage of their growth journey.

With a 30+ year legacy and a strong footprint across the Midlands, this business has become one of the region’s most recognisable names in their field. With five established depots, a loyal trade customer base, and growing online presence, the opportunity now exists for an experienced and entrepreneurial leader to modernise and drive performance across the business.

The Role:

This is a hands-on, strategic leadership role – perfect for a commercially astute operator who knows how to lead a product-based, multi-site business from the front.

You will have full autonomy to shape the commercial strategy, modernise operations, and build a culture of high performance, alignment, and accountability. This is not a role for someone looking to step up – it requires a proven leader with experience running a complex, people-driven business.

The successful Managing Director will work closely with the founding owner (non-operational) to shape a long-term plan for growth and legacy, while bringing in fresh thinking, structure, and pace.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead the day-to-day operations across the business with full P&L ownership
2. Drive commercial performance, cost control, and margin improvement
3. Improve buying, stock management, and depot collaboration
4. Develop and implement a clear strategy for growth, retention, and digital expansion
5. Create a cohesive and accountable management structure across sites
6. Build a culture of performance, positivity, and shared values
7. Represent the brand with professionalism to customers, partners, and suppliers

Key Skills & Experience:

1. Proven leadership experience as a Managing Director, CEO, or Commercial Director in a relevant product-based business (e.g. distribution, multi-site trade, merchanting, or light manufacturing)
2. Commercially sharp, operationally strong, and used to leading across functions
3. Able to manage a high-volume, stock-sensitive business with margin discipline
4. Comfortable with modernising systems, processes, and team structures
5. Hands-on, confident, and values-led with strong interpersonal skills
6. Experience in trade customer environments and managing physical sites is essential

Role Details:

1. Job Title: Managing Director / CEO
2. Location: Midlands based HQ (Staffordshire) - onsite 5 days per week
3. Package: £70,000–£80,000 per annum + Bonus + Potential Equity
4. Benefits: Car / Allowance + 25 days holiday + bank holidays
5. Interview Process: 3 stages

Apply now to speak with VIQU in confidence or reach out to Nicholas Hopkins directly via the VIQU website.

Contact information

Nicholas Hopkins