A Managing Director is usually the most senior professional within a company and is accountable for its overall performance. Also known as an MD or CEO, they act on behalf of the board of directors and aim to implement company policy and business strategies as they take charge of the day to day running of an organisation. Typical tasks of a Managing Director can include controlling budgets, building a management team and liaising with board members and the chairman.
Job titles directly responsible to the Managing Director might include:
Director of Corporate Communications
Finance Director
IT Director
Sales Director
Technical Director
The role of Managing Director is important in any company and executive recruitment agencies will usually use headhunting techniques to source exceptional candidates who can demonstrate leadership and management qualities.
Managing director salaries
The position of managing director is highly paid although the sector and size of company can have an impact on salaries. Typical earnings tend to start at around £60K although managing directors within a large, high profile company can command over £200K per annum. London-based blue chip organisations will usually offer the most lucrative salaries while city locations such as Manchester, Leeds or Birmingham also pay highly.
What qualifications will an MD need?
There is no specific qualification to be a managing director although the majority may have a background in law, finance or accounting. Depending on the company, industry-specific competency will be needed although experience is often regarded as the main attribute required of personnel. An MD / CEO also needs to have strong leadership and communication skills as well as a keen eye for detail. Executive and managing director recruitment agencies well versed in using search and select techniques to uncover the most in demand and skilled candidates for permanent or interim positions.