South Yorkshire Office
South Grove House
South Grove
Rotherham
South Yorkshire
S60 2AF
About Parkinson|Lee
Our Vision
As a highly reputable Executive Search business, Parkinson Lee aspires to be the professional firm of choice for companies based in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the East Midlands, seeking high performing Business Leaders, Board Directors and Senior Executives.
Yorkshire’s Leading Executive Search Specialists
With offices in Rotherham, Leeds and London, Parkinson Lee is an Executive Search firm deliberately dedicated to clients in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the East Midlands.
We help those clients find and appoint outstanding Business Leaders, Board Directors and Senior Executives across the full range of functional disciplines. In so doing, our service offers a rare blend of principled values, precise processes and shrewd judgements, leading to a very high rate of successful completion. As a consequence, we are now one of the UK’s fastest-growing independent Executive Search firms.
Parkinson Lee is a stable, secure and profitable Partnership. We’re not aiming to be a global PLC and we’re not responsible to City institutions or remote shareholders - we’re responsible to our clients. As a Yorkshire business serving Yorkshire business - and our clients in Lincolnshire and the East Midlands. But although our core commitment is regional, we also have a significant international capability.
Our local dedication is reinforced by our dedication to specific functional roles, with professional practices focusing on the following:
- Board Level & Executive Appointments
- CFO & Financial Leadership
- Engineering & Manufacturing
- Small & Medium Enterprises
- Private Equity & Venture Capital
- Interim Management
- Not For Profit & Public Sector
- Non-Executive Directors
Our Team
The strength of our network is key to our success
The Parkinson|Lee Team
We believe in the crucial importance of leadership - the identification, assessment, and attraction of strong leaders. Because to achieve shareholder value, strategic goals and sustained results, strong leadership is crucial for our clients. And also, of course, for Parkinson Lee and our continuing success.
Greg Parkinson, Chief Executive, and Lee Bhandal, Managing Partner, have given great thought to the Values necessary to underpin the success of Parkinson Lee. These are summarised under the acronym WE CARE and we will be pleased to discuss them with you if you so wish.
We are loyal and transparent: long-term and trusting relationships - with our clients, our candidates and with each other - are central to our existence.
Greg Parkinson
Chief Executive
As the Founder and Chief Executive of Elevation Recruitment Group, a leading Group of multi-disciplined recruitment specialists, Greg Parkinson is the Chief Executive of Parkinson Lee. With deep experience and expertise in Executive Search, Greg has an outstanding track record of success, completing Assignments with a high level of client satisfaction over many years.
Greg is also the Group CEO who leads the business. With a strong vision, obvious integrity and a motivating style, Greg is one of our Region’s most talented entrepreneurs.
Greg Parkinson's contact information
Phone: 07528 528 883
Email: g.parkinson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn
Lee Bhandal
Managing Partner
Lee Bhandal is our Managing Partner.
Lee is a Board Director at our parent company, Elevation Recruitment Group, and a key member of the team that completed the successful MBO of that Group in 2014. As well as providing day-to-day leadership for Parkinson Lee, he also takes the lead for the appointment of CEOs and Business Leaders, and our CFO and Finance Directors’ practice.
When it comes to Executive Search, exclusively and continuously in Yorkshire and the East Midlands, Lee is almost certainly the most experienced practitioner in the region, benefitting from a network that is probably unrivalled.
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Lee Bhandal's contact information
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn
Adam Dickson
Associate Partner
Adam Dickson is an Associate Partner at Parkinson Lee Executive Search. He has over 20 years’ experience in recruiting executive & board level appointments across the UK (Yorkshire, East Midlands, London, Thames Valley), and internationally across Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific and the UAE.
Adam has spent 10 years of his career in Australia, leading an executive search firm with reach across the Asia Pacific market, whilst operating within a global ASX listed business based out of Sydney. Adam has substantial experience in completing retained search mandates for a broad range of clients, ranging from Blue Chip, SME and Private Equity backed organisations.
As a previous business owner, and having held numerous leadership roles, Adam prides himself on exceptional service delivery for clients and candidates, acting as both a trusted career advisor and search partner. As an Associate partner at Parkinson Lee, Adam delivers executive assignments on behalf of a comprehensive list of FTSE and Aim listed PLCs, Private Equity & Venture Capital, SME and Not For Profit / Public Sector organisations.
Adam Dickson's contact information
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn
Rachael Lee
Client Services Manager
As the Client Services Manager, Rachael works closely with our Partners and takes the lead role on the research, market mapping and talent identification for all retained mandates. In addition, Rachael is responsible for ensuring that the Parkinson Lee networks are relevant, up to date and informed across all assignments. With 15 years' experience within the industry, Rachael prides herself on building long standing relationships and acting as a truste partner and career advisor to business leaders within our network. Rachael always strives to over deliver on expectations and supply partners with accurate long-lists for all relevant mandates, based on a structured and thorough approach to market research, in-depth candidate interviews and cultural assessments.
John Bohan
Partner
John Bohan is the Engineering & Manufacturing Practice Lead at Parkinson|Lee Executive Search and is a key member of the senior leadership team for parent company Elevation Recruitment Group Ltd.
John has over 13 years executive search experience recruiting within the engineering and manufacturing sector, specialising in Executive and Senior Management level appointments. During this time, he has operated on a retained, mandate lead basis for an extensive number of the region’s leading and most innovative employers. Key hires have contributed to; growth strategy, turnaround, relocation, buyouts and business critical change.
Johns success ranges from SME to Blue Chip businesses and from precision engineering to chemical processing facilities. He has a diverse technical appreciation for all sectors enabling him to offer our clients a bespoke and effective solution.
His assignments are critical to the success of his clients and as such John spends time to fully understand the technicality of the product and process of each business as well as the culture behind it.
He works closely with key industry bodies, such the IMechE, IET, and IChemE, to support the growth and success of the industry in the UK as well as keep abreast of key industry knowledge and network with the most successful and talented professionals in their field.
John Bohan's contact information
Phone: 07985 151 131
Email: j.bohan@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn
Emma Noble
Partner
Emma plays an integral part in our well established, market leading HR brand and advise and assist an extensive number of the local regions top HR talent. Day in day out, Emma specialises in Senior Management and Executive level appointments that cover HR Director’s, Operational HR, Learning & Development, Organisational Change, Reward and Resourcing assignments.
Emma works on retained advertised led campaigns, PSL and mandate led assignments and her work has contributed to growth strategy, turnaround, relocation, buyouts and business critical change.
She works closely with key industry bodies, such as CIPD as well as local and national Law firms providing legislative expertise and updates, to support the growth and success of the local industry as well as keeping abreast of key industry knowledge and network with the most successful and talented professionals in their field.
Emma is uniquely qualified to both advise and guide individuals within her personal network having been a previous business owner, Managing Director and Non – Executive Director, all of which provided her with a breadth of invaluable experience.
A proud professional, Emma has a personal reputation in the Yorkshire region that is second to none, clearly based on her work ethic, credibility and desire to remain as the search partner of choice within the HR arena.
Emma is also an intrinsic member of the Group Leadership Team providing insight, guidance and council in the ongoing development and running of the Group.
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Emma Noble's contact information
Phone: 07710 096 839
Email: e.noble@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn
Philip Hill
Non-Executive Director
Phil Hill is the Non-Executive Director of Parkinson|Lee Executive Search and a qualified Executive Coach, Chartered Accountant and Business Mentor to a number of Yorkshire’s fastest growing, entrepreneurial SME businesses.
Phil is also a Group Board Director of Elevation Consultancy Group Ltd and plays a pivotal role ensuring that the Group’s finances and operational procedures are robust so as to guarantee the long term future of the Group.
Career highlights include 6 years as a Finance Director at Plc level, 9 years as Managing Director/ Owner of a High Growth Recruitment Business and 7 years as an Executive coach and mentor, assisting many of Yorkshire’s businesses and their Directors achieve their strategic and commercial objectives.
Phil plays a key role in using his experience and knowledge to give advice and guidance to the Directors within both group companies. He also works closely with the Group Board Directors to define the Company’s strategic ambitions and to ensure these ambitions are achieved.
Philip Hill's contact information
Phone: 07931 385 092
Email: p.hill@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn
We believe in the crucial importance of leadership - the identification, assessment, and attraction of strong leaders. Because to achieve shareholder value, strategic goals and sustained results, strong leadership is crucial for our clients. And also, of course, for Parkinson Lee and our continuing success.
Greg Parkinson, Chief Executive, and Lee Bhandal, Managing Partner, have given great thought to the Values necessary to underpin the success of Parkinson Lee. These are summarised under the acronym WE CARE and we will be pleased to discuss them with you if you so wish.
We are loyal and transparent: long-term and trusting relationships - with our clients, our candidates and with each other - are central to our existence.
Chief Executive
As the Founder and Chief Executive of Elevation Recruitment Group, a leading Group of multi-disciplined recruitment specialists, Greg Parkinson is the Chief Executive of Parkinson Lee. With deep experience and expertise in Executive Search, Greg has an outstanding track record of success, completing Assignments with a high level of client satisfaction over many years.
Greg is also the Group CEO who leads the business. With a strong vision, obvious integrity and a motivating style, Greg is one of our Region’s most talented entrepreneurs.
Greg Parkinson's contact information
Phone: 07528 528 883
Email: Click here
Online: Click here
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Managing Partner
Lee Bhandal is our Managing Partner.
Lee is a Board Director at our parent company, Elevation Recruitment Group, and a key member of the team that completed the successful MBO of that Group in 2014. As well as providing day-to-day leadership for Parkinson Lee, he also takes the lead for the appointment of CEOs and Business Leaders, and our CFO and Finance Directors’ practice.
When it comes to Executive Search, exclusively and continuously in Yorkshire and the East Midlands, Lee is almost certainly the most experienced practitioner in the region, benefitting from a network that is probably unrivalled.
Lee Bhandal's contact information
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: Click here
Online: Click here
Associate Partner
Adam Dickson is an Associate Partner at Parkinson Lee Executive Search. He has over 20 years’ experience in recruiting executive & board level appointments across the UK (Yorkshire, East Midlands, London, Thames Valley), and internationally across Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific and the UAE.
Adam has spent 10 years of his career in Australia, leading an executive search firm with reach across the Asia Pacific market, whilst operating within a global ASX listed business based out of Sydney. Adam has substantial experience in completing retained search mandates for a broad range of clients, ranging from Blue Chip, SME and Private Equity backed organisations.
As a previous business owner, and having held numerous leadership roles, Adam prides himself on exceptional service delivery for clients and candidates, acting as both a trusted career advisor and search partner. As an Associate partner at Parkinson Lee, Adam delivers executive assignments on behalf of a comprehensive list of FTSE and Aim listed PLCs, Private Equity & Venture Capital, SME and Not For Profit / Public Sector organisations.
Adam Dickson's contact information
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: Click here
Online: Click here
Client Services Manager
As the Client Services Manager, Rachael works closely with our Partners and takes the lead role on the research, market mapping and talent identification for all retained mandates. In addition, Rachael is responsible for ensuring that the Parkinson Lee networks are relevant, up to date and informed across all assignments. With 15 years' experience within the industry, Rachael prides herself on building long standing relationships and acting as a truste partner and career advisor to business leaders within our network. Rachael always strives to over deliver on expectations and supply partners with accurate long-lists for all relevant mandates, based on a structured and thorough approach to market research, in-depth candidate interviews and cultural assessments.
Partner
John Bohan is the Engineering & Manufacturing Practice Lead at Parkinson|Lee Executive Search and is a key member of the senior leadership team for parent company Elevation Recruitment Group Ltd.
John has over 13 years executive search experience recruiting within the engineering and manufacturing sector, specialising in Executive and Senior Management level appointments. During this time, he has operated on a retained, mandate lead basis for an extensive number of the region’s leading and most innovative employers. Key hires have contributed to; growth strategy, turnaround, relocation, buyouts and business critical change.
Johns success ranges from SME to Blue Chip businesses and from precision engineering to chemical processing facilities. He has a diverse technical appreciation for all sectors enabling him to offer our clients a bespoke and effective solution.
His assignments are critical to the success of his clients and as such John spends time to fully understand the technicality of the product and process of each business as well as the culture behind it.
He works closely with key industry bodies, such the IMechE, IET, and IChemE, to support the growth and success of the industry in the UK as well as keep abreast of key industry knowledge and network with the most successful and talented professionals in their field.
John Bohan's contact information
Phone: 07985 151 131
Email: Click here
Online: Click here
.png)
Partner
Emma plays an integral part in our well established, market leading HR brand and advise and assist an extensive number of the local regions top HR talent. Day in day out, Emma specialises in Senior Management and Executive level appointments that cover HR Director’s, Operational HR, Learning & Development, Organisational Change, Reward and Resourcing assignments.
Emma works on retained advertised led campaigns, PSL and mandate led assignments and her work has contributed to growth strategy, turnaround, relocation, buyouts and business critical change.
She works closely with key industry bodies, such as CIPD as well as local and national Law firms providing legislative expertise and updates, to support the growth and success of the local industry as well as keeping abreast of key industry knowledge and network with the most successful and talented professionals in their field.
Emma is uniquely qualified to both advise and guide individuals within her personal network having been a previous business owner, Managing Director and Non – Executive Director, all of which provided her with a breadth of invaluable experience.
A proud professional, Emma has a personal reputation in the Yorkshire region that is second to none, clearly based on her work ethic, credibility and desire to remain as the search partner of choice within the HR arena.
Emma is also an intrinsic member of the Group Leadership Team providing insight, guidance and council in the ongoing development and running of the Group.
Emma Noble's contact information
Phone: 07710 096 839
Email: Click here
Online: Click here
Non-Executive Director
Phil Hill is the Non-Executive Director of Parkinson|Lee Executive Search and a qualified Executive Coach, Chartered Accountant and Business Mentor to a number of Yorkshire’s fastest growing, entrepreneurial SME businesses.
Phil is also a Group Board Director of Elevation Consultancy Group Ltd and plays a pivotal role ensuring that the Group’s finances and operational procedures are robust so as to guarantee the long term future of the Group.
Career highlights include 6 years as a Finance Director at Plc level, 9 years as Managing Director/ Owner of a High Growth Recruitment Business and 7 years as an Executive coach and mentor, assisting many of Yorkshire’s businesses and their Directors achieve their strategic and commercial objectives.
Phil plays a key role in using his experience and knowledge to give advice and guidance to the Directors within both group companies. He also works closely with the Group Board Directors to define the Company’s strategic ambitions and to ensure these ambitions are achieved.
Philip Hill's contact information
Phone: 07931 385 092
Email: Click here
Online: Click here
Practices
Our specialist practices have been established based around the knowledge, understanding and expertise within our leadership team
At Parkinson|Lee our practices are built on our in-depth knowledge, expertise and insight of each respective market. With over 80 years combined search experience, Parkinson|Lee have developed unrivalled professional networks, allowing us to conduct functional and industry specific search campaigns tailored specifically to our clients individual requirements.
For more information on each of our practices please click the link below.
Assignment Process
Our success is based on a straightforward and transparent approach at all stages of every search
Executive Search is a structured recruitment process involving the research, identification, approach and attraction of precisely identified individuals.
As a professional Partnership, big enough to deliver but small enough to care, Parkinson Lee is always flexible, fitting around you and your requirements (and not the other way around). At the same time, the process will normally include the following stages for our clients:
With over 80 years combined experience, Parkinson|Lee are one of the most dynamic, professional and experienced teams of Search Consultants across Yorkshire
Our Reach
West Yorkshire Office
Red Hall Court
Wakefield
WF1 2UN
01924 635070
London Office
1st Floor,
99 Bishopsgate,
London,
EC2M 3XD
0203 488 3570
Parkinson Lee has chosen to be deliberately dedicated to our clients in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the East Midlands.
This is probably a unique - and certainly a rare - market proposition, given our Assignments, operating level and the quality of our service. It enables us to offer those clients one central advantage: that for any company based in our region, recruiting in one of our functional specialisms and keen to use a highly professional firm on the doorstep, we offer an unrivalled knowledge of the local landscape and market networks - so often, we hit the ground running on your behalf.
But we also know that at the top table, talent transcends territories. When the Search demands it, therefore, we are also comfortable and capable of representing you powerfully across the UK. Across Europe. And across the globe.
In this context, Parkinson Lee offers ready access to a multi-national network of Executive Search Partner Companies and a multi-lingual range of Researchers. Whether it’s in Leeds or Lagos, Mexborough or Mexico, we talk the same language.
Executive Opportunities
Parkinson|Lee Executive Search are continually searching for high calibre, executive level candidates that fit the needs of our clients
Many of our search assignments are confidential in nature and as such are not advertised so please do send us your CV or contact us as there may be other roles we are currently handling that may be right for you.
Please register for executive opportunities
Selected live assignments
Register With Parkinson Lee
Please note that any information provided here will be treated in the strictest of confidence
Thank you for registering your interest, we will be in touch soon.
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Managing Director Rotherham
Managing Director
Salary: Competitive Salary + Executive Bens
Location: Rotherham
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESRL-36793Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are currently retained partners with a Global Payments Software organisation in the appointment of a UK Managing Director. As the commercially focused MD you will develop and deliver the UK strategy, hold full P&L responsibility and drive growth by taking ownership for the Sales, Business Development and Account Management teams by setting the tactical and long-term go to market direction.
In this client facing role, you will be required to undertake business development opportunities directly, managing key relationships across the UK & Ireland.
Key responsibilities will include:
•Develop and deliver short and long term strategic and tactical plans for the UK & Ireland
•Lead business and strategy meetings, cross functionally with finance, product and operations to support new product development and new market infiltration
•Identify growth opportunities for the business (potential acquisitions). Lead, review, close and integrate in line with strategic plans for the business
•Recruit, train, develop and mentor new commercial professionals
•Ensure key relationships with banks, payment processors, acquirers, alternative payment providers and major retailers are maintained
•Be at the forefront of business trends, market opportunities and competitionParkinson Lee Executive Search are keen to speak to senior leaders with the below experience:
•A proven leader within a commercially focused Managing Director capacity
•Demonstrable experience within the Payments sector
•Able to demonstrate growth within previous organisations
•High energy and gravitas to lead and motivate high performing commercial teams
•P&L experience
•Knowledge of working within a matrix organisation would be advantageous
•Experience of developing and launching new products or entering new markets
•The role will offer hybrid working, however in the first 3-6 month you will need to have some presence on site in the Head Office in the North of England.Our client is offering a substantial £six figure salary + executive level benefits
This is a unique opportunity for a commercial leader to join a well-established organisation within the payments sector to drive the business to the next phase in their growth.
Apply -
Chief Information Officer West Yorkshire
Chief Information Officer
Salary: Competitive Salary + Excellent Bens
Location: West Yorkshire
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-38415Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are retained partners to an AIM listed manufacturing business, based in West Yorkshire, in the appointment of a Chief Information Officer / Chief Technology Officer to join their growing business.As a key member of the Executive Team, you will help drive the strategic agenda through your deep understanding of technology, data architecture, digital transformation and analytics, leading and motivating a high performing team in order to drive business goals and support company growth.
Key Responsibilities will include:
•Leadership and development of the IT team
•Development the Group’s IT roadmap for infrastructure and enterprise/systems architecture
•Responsibility for providing the necessary framework, defences and safeguards for the Group’s data, including all sensitive data from both internal and external threats.
•Acting as a key leader and change agent as the Group continues its digital transformation and upgrade to legacy systems
•Driving Innovation through the application of pragmatic, business-oriented technology solutions that assist the business in differentiating from its competitors, improves the customer journey and enables scalability in line with the Group’s growth plansParkinson Lee Executive Search are inviting individuals with the following backgrounds to apply:
•The proven ability of working at Board level, supporting the strategic goals of the Group whilst also being very comfortable with a hands-on approach whereby they immerse themselves in the detail.
•Multisite manufacturing experience would be preferred with experience of direct-to-consumer model
•Must thrive on all aspects of people management, including mentoring and development of the core team
•Resilience and can-do attitude are a must
•Enjoys the challenge of working in a dynamic, highly operational environment
•10+ years of relevant experience, in particular management of infrastructure and exposure to digital transformation
•Proactive business-focused leader with an excellent track record of driving technology change and overseeing IT transformations (including consolidation)
•Proven experience of building scalable platforms and integrating existing platforms and solutions
•A strong track record of managing cyber security, for example leading the accreditation of Cyber Essentials+ or similar
•Exposure to cloud technology - Microsoft Azure - AWS - Google
•Exposure to leading ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM or Salesforce etc.
•TOGAF certificationA substantial £six figure salary with executive benefits package will be available for this fantastic opportunity, an exciting challenge for an experienced CIO/CTO to drive digital change within growing PLC.
ApplyAssignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn -
Head of Purchasing Doncaster
Head of Purchasing
Location: Doncaster
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-36905Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are pleased to announce their retained partnership, with Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems, in the search and selection for a new ‘Head of Purchasing’, a key position for the business. Reporting directly into the CEO, you will be responsible for a team of 4 and have full accountability across all areas of Purchasing. Areas include but are not limited to: Purchasing Projects; Supplier Selection incl. Development and assessment; Rationalisation; Reviews; Benchmarking; Negotiations through to Approvals for the business.Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems engineers the most advanced integrated piping systems for the distribution and control of liquids and gases for key verticals, like industrial, utilities, commercial and residential. They offer fully integrated piping systems in valve, connection, fastening and piping technology and are at the forefront of innovation. Founded in 1975 Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems, formally known as Pegler are now a multibillion turnover organisation with over 16,000 employees worldwide.
Role SummaryA key part of this role is the ability to build, maintain and develop relationships across all areas of the Group and external suppliers. You will lead all projects; from evaluating; benchmarking and sourcing suppliers, reviewing all aspects of supplier shortages; price changes and risk ensuring commercial recommendations are considered and the best in line with company objectives. You will then go on to develop a supplier and product strategy, initiating a full proof contingency plan to secure future sourcing projects and strategic weaknesses. You will be responsible for initiating and implementing improvements across all procurement systems.
This Head of Purchasing Duties & Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
- Relationship management: Internal departments incl. Group; Projects and External suppliers
- Management: Manage a team of four in the delivery of procurement projects and a spend of c£80m
- People Management: Outline KPIs for your team; report and track progress; conduct appraisals; support ongoing training and development
- Project Management: Evaluate, benchmark, make sourcing and commercial recommendations as noted above detailing supply chain risks; price changes and supply shortages
- Systems: Reviewing the procurement systems in place; initiate and make recommendations for change / improvement
- Procurement: Support all areas where required and procure products for the business as and when required
- Strategy: Curation through to execution as detailed above, highlighting all product and supplier strategic weaknesses
We are keen to speak with individuals that meet the following skills and experience:
- You will be degree qualified with work experience in a multi-site / manufacturing environment or strong technical background with an ability to read and interpret drawings
- Highly desired sector experience: FMCG environment across the following: Health, Safety & Environment. Manufacturing / logistics processes
- Strategic thinker, analytically strong with experience in budgets, forecasting and problem solving
- Demonstrable experience operating at both detailed and strategic level
- Commercially astute; driven with a creative approach
- Motivated with a desire for continuous improvement and techniques
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to develop both team and business function
- Flexible approach with the ability to travel within the UK and Europe, if / when required
- IT Literate with Microsoft packagesFor a confidential discussion about this appointment please contact Lee Bhandal at Parkinson Lee on , or alternatively apply online
ApplyAssignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn -
Managing Director Wakefield
Managing Director
Salary: £130000 - £140000 Per Annum + + Exec Bens + Equity Participation
Location: Wakefield
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESRL-37630Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are retained partners to a leading manufacturing firm based in Yorkshire in the appointment of a Managing Director. Joining the company during a rapid period of growth, you will lead the day-to-day management and performance of the company, with responsibility for delivering the strategic plans, as well as developing and delivering annual business plan targets and budgets.
With a strong commercial and customer focus, you will lead on key customer relationships, ensuring clients are maximising opportunities with the introduction of new products and aftersales services.
Key responsibilities include:
•Ensuring there is continuous profitable growth of the business, implementing relevant systems and processes to manage commercial gain
•Establishing and maintaining strong customer focus
•Full P&L responsibility
•Reviewing activity reports and financial statements to determine and progress attaining objectives
•Leadership and day to day management of the Senior Team
•Providing overall leadership and ensuring employees have the right competencies and capabilities deliver the agreed financial goals in the short, medium and long term
•Researching and analysing the industry, market, and competitors to make informed strategy decisions on developments, market opportunities, customers and suppliers. To support the positioning of the business as the market leader within the industryParkinson Lee are looking for applicants with the below skill set:
•A proven track record of working at Managing Director level with a strong commercial focus
•Experience of working within a manufacturing environment that offers after sales, service, and repairs
•An exceptional customer focus with a hands-on approach to building and maintaining key customer relationships
•Full P&L responsibility
•Experience of working in a SME environment or a larger corporate as divisional MD levelThis is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious business leader who thrives in developing and scaling businesses. In addition to an excellent six figure package, there will an equity participation opportunity.
Apply -
Finance Director North of England
Finance Director
Salary: Competitive Salary + Excellent Bens
Location: North of England
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-37506Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are the retained partners to IPL, a world-leading manufacturer of sustainable packaging products, in the appointment of a Finance Director based in the North of England.IPL partners with customers to deliver sustainable solutions to the food, consumer, agricultural, automotive, logistics and environmental end-markets.
As a packaging partner IPL manufactures customised injection-moulded and blow moulded packaging solutions. They partner with their customers to create products that are truly designed for circularity and the transition to low carbon.
With a global turnover of $1billion, IPL employs circa 2500 employees and manufacture their products at 19 facilities located in UK & Ireland, USA, and China. Their Business is organised into two segments: Consumer Packaging Solutions (CPS), and Environmental, Returnable and industrial Solutions (ERIS).
This is an exciting time to be joining the senior leadership team of the ERIS division, which has seen exponential growth both organically and via acquisition in recent years. The Finance Director will play an important role as part of the team driving this strategy. The role will require the person to gain a deep understanding of the ERIS EU Division and become a key decision maker within its leadership team.
Recent acquisitions over the last 5 years have seen the business grow from around £50million to over to £200m in revenue across 6 UK sites / P&L’s.
The Finance Director will be responsible for a central finance team and over 30 finance staff across the various sites.
The location of the role will be flexible and will involve regular travel to sites, located in Tamworth, Wolverhampton, Rotherham, Hull, Castleford & Haydock.
Key responsibilities will include:
Strategy
•Work closely with the ERIS Managing Director to shape and execute the strategy for the division with the rest of the senior team
•The strategy will grow the profitability and cashflow of the business both organically and by acquisition while maintaining discipline on its return on capital
•This will involve assessing acquisition targets and large capital projects for appropriate returns on capital as well as driving improved performance in the areas of sales growth, margin enhancement, cost control and cashflowLeadership
•Working with the senior management team, lead, develop and motivate the team in the
finance function to enhance its capability
•The overall development of the team and the promotion of a performance culture are
important aspects of the role
•Actively taking part in the finance leadership across the group along with the group CFO and other division finance directors to shape and implement a finance strategy for the groupCommercial Performance
•Driving the commercial performance of the division for the achievement of its overall vision and strategic objectives - in terms of market share, profit growth, cashflow management and ROCE
•Work with the senior management team to evolve the KPIs used in the business to ensure that they are both measuring and optimising the operational performance
•Evaluating divisional business opportunities, preparing and presenting business cases and making recommendations
•Identifying cost improvement and performance measures, rolling out change and
transformation programs and driving efficiency in all areas of the operationsFinancial Reporting and Control
•Responsible for the financial integrity and timeliness of the information reported to the group
•Look to continuously improve the weekly management information packs and monthly
accounts close process
•Responsible for the preparation of divisional budgets, business plans, strategic plans for the di-vision and to organise and lead the divisional management in the preparation, presentation and delivery of performance against those budgets, business plans and strategic plans
•Assess opportunities to improve existing systems including identifying areas of efficiency and control improvement
•Develop and improve financial planning, analysis and forecasting within the division and to group
•Responsible for managing and maintaining the required high level of effective controls including coordinating the internal audits of the ERIS UK division to ensure compliance with the Group internal control policies and SOX submissions
•Responsible for the preparation of divisional Group financial statements according to set dead-lines including managing the division’s quarterly results and preparation of quarterly MD&A
•Support implementation of Divisional IT and HR Strategies. Build and develop the finance & IT teams to deliver and support the needs of the divisionParkinson Lee Executive Search are keen to speak to candidates with the below skill set:
•A Finance Director with a minimum of 10 years'' PQE and an excellent record of financial and commercial achievement in a competitive and dynamic sector, ideally within a manufacturing business within a multi-site environment
•Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to quickly command the confidence and respect of the management team
•Highly analytical with the ability to delve into the detail to drive improvements in the business
•Sound commercial judgement with the ability to contribute directly to the overall business strategy and work with other members of the senior management team on their commercial issues
•Change management experience with ability to lead change projects including integration experience
•Passion and commitment with high personal integrity and a practical, pragmatic and
hardworking ethic
•Experienced within fast growing businesses and possessing a demonstrable track record of establishing systems and processes, as well as growing & aligning highly capable finance teamsThis is an outstanding opportunity for a high calibre Finance Director within an exciting and fast growing, private equity backed, sustainability focused organisation.
ApplyAssignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Managing Director North of England
Managing Director
Salary: Significant Six Figure Basic +Exec Bens
Location: North of England
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-37376Job Description
Substantial Six Figure Basic + Executive Benefits Package Location: North of England
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are the retained partners to a Private Equity backed, market leading, medium sized (around 200 employees), manufacturing organisation based in the North of England, in the appointment of a Managing Director.
As Managing Director, you are joining this highly successful business at an exciting time of investment. You will deliver on the strategic plan in place; you will play an instrumental role in the projected future organic and acquisitional growth.
Over the last 12 months the company has been through a major transformation; it has already seen remarkable improvements in profitability, efficiency, and cultural profile.
The organisation has identified opportunities for growth via the introduction of new systems / products and is investing heavily into new product development to increase the size of both its potential customer base and market share.
Working collaboratively with the shareholders’ representatives, the Managing Director will continue to entrepreneurially pursue commercial and innovative opportunities for the medium term.
As the Managing Director, you will lead the Senior Management Team and implement new initiatives which aim to elevate standards across the company. You will drive a company culture of collaboration, inclusive team leadership transparency and one where everyone has a voice.
You are
•An individual with gravitas and a straight-forward, flexible, and partner-like approach
•An entrepreneurial achiever with exceptional commercial awareness
•An outstanding thought leader and problem solver who makes change happen; willing to challenge the status quo; and willing to challenge what your own previous experience seems to suggestParkinson Lee Executive Search are keen to speak to high calibre business leaders with demonstrable experience of:
•Leading within mature, successful manufacturing organisations
•Making an extraordinary footprint as Managing Director level or as leader of entrepreneurial units within their organisations
•Taking a good organisation and making it great, essentially taking a business to the next level on a journey to profitable, sustainable growth
•Operating as a leader within a Private Equity environment, backed by first-class references
•Effectively managing upward with business owners/private equity investors
•Enhancing your teams’ performance through coaching, mentoring, and modelling
•A degree of academic achievement (Masters, MBA or equivalent)This is an outstanding, career defining opportunity for an ambitious business leader who thrives in developing and scaling this successful business, who is committed to leading the business towards and beyond the shareholders’ exit.
For a confidential discussion please contact Lee Bhandal at Parkinson Lee on 07590529274.
ApplyAssignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Head of Recruitment Rotherham
Head of Recruitment
Salary: Competitive Salary + Excellent Bens
Location: Rotherham
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-35909Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are part of Elevation Recruitment Group, one of Yorkshire’s leading employers with an exceptional reputation in specialist recruitment. Parkinson Lee are Yorkshire’s Leading Executive Search Firm. We specialise in conducting senior & executive level search mandates on behalf of an increasingly diverse and expanding list of clients, from Owner Managed SME’s through to Private Equity Backed and PLC’s, across a breadth of business sectors.
Over the last 12 months Parkinson Lee have had record breaking growth and demand for C-Level Executives is high.
We are looking for a Head of Recruitment to lead all aspects of recruitment operations within Parkinson Lee. You will the lead the Recruitment team, reporting to the Group Operations Director. You’ll be responsible for the operational backbone of recruitment within the brand, owning the systems, data, analysis and processes that help us find great candidates, attracting the best people to the mandates and delivering an outstanding candidate and client experience. As a strategic partner in the brand, you’ll help tell the recruitment story through data as well as market knowledge, and enable the Managing Partner and wider team to identify new opportunities.
This is a unique and compelling senior recruitment opportunity. In a fast paced, encouraging and enterprising environment some of your key responsibilities while working closely with the Managing Partner will be:
•Manage, build and lead the recruitment team, including associate partners and researchers.
•Source, deploy and manage all systems and tools relating to recruitment that help the team recruit more effectively and support the team’s efficiency
•Develop a culture of data and analytical rigor, and build the foundations to enable data-informed recruitment and actionable insights.
•Own the candidate journey and overall experience.
•Own learning and development for the recruitment team, including training, onboarding and knowledge management.
•Working closely with the Managing Partner and wider executive team to agree a strategy for the structure and development of the inhouse research team.
•Conducting extensive national research, market mapping and talent identification in order to source potential executive candidates for the vacancies you are briefed. You will use a variety of techniques including database searching and networking, direct head hunting, job board searching, effective use of social media and advert writing
•Pre-Qualifying and then Briefing candidates about the responsibilities, salary and benefits of the job in question
•Interviewing relevant longlisted candidates face to face in order to generate a shortlist to present to our partners
•Developing and maintaining ongoing relationships with candidates through providing a high calibre of service
•Preparing CVs and correspondence to forward to clients in respect of our shortlist presentations
•Preparing proposal documents, candidate brief packs, project plans and presentations using a variety of Microsoft packages
•Organising key events and managing invites and logisticsWhat you will need:
-Experienced in a recruitment management role; proven ability to use discretion and judgement where required whilst maintaining a high level of confidentiality
-Experience of developing a team from the ground up including recruitment, coaching, performance management and mentoring
-Excellent communication skills both oral and written with the confidence and professionalism to forge strong business relationships with clients, candidates and this close-knit team
-You will be forward thinking; Self-motivated with a professional approach and the ability to work proactively; on your own initiative
-Organisation skills are a must with the ability to manage multiple projects at any one time and prioritise workload accordingly whilst delivering a high-quality service to all parties
-Experience working in a fast paced and professional recruitment environment with an understanding of the full recruitment lifecycleIf you are a passionate recruitment professional that is looking to join one of Yorkshire’s leading entrepreneurial employers in an exciting and rewarding role please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Managing Partner, Lee Bhandal.
ApplyAssignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Managing Director - UK & Ireland Goole
Managing Director - UK & Ireland
Salary: Significant Six Figure Base + Executive Benefits
Location: Goole
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-26258Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search, part of the Elevation Recruitment Group, are acting as the retained partner to Tunstall Healthcare Group Ltd, in the appointment of a Managing Director – UK and Ireland. Tunstall are a profitable private equity owned, global group operating in more than 50 countries and employing approximately 2,800 people. Group turnover in 2017 was approximately £240m, with the UK & Ireland contributing circa £70 million.
Over the last sixty years, Tunstall has pioneered the use of technology to enable independent living, creating the Connected Healthcare industry as we know it today, and supporting more than five million people and their families across the world.
Tunstall blend British design and manufacturing with externally sourced innovation to create a cost-effective portfolio of services, underpinned by their global experience of enhancing care in the home.As the digital opportunity accelerates the speed of change, Tunstall continue to work in partnership with their customers to develop more ground-breaking and innovative, life changing solutions.
Tunstall have a clear strategic plan in place, and are looking to grow significantly across the UK & Ireland, as such an opportunity now exists for a Managing Director - UK & Ireland.
Reporting to the Group Chief Executive Officer, the Managing Director will play a lead role in the transformation and growth of business. This is a key strategic appointment for the group, and an opportunity for the right individual to make a real impact on business growth and success.
Key Deliverables will Include:
• Ensuring there is continuous profitable growth of the Tunstall business in the UK & Ireland
• Positioning Tunstall as the market leader both in the numerical definition but also as a thought leader and ‘trusted advisor’ whose opinion is valued by all stakeholders in their market place
• Full P&L responsibility for the business in the UK & Ireland
• Providing overall leadership to the UK & Ireland/Regional team and ensure employees have the right competencies and capabilities within a right sized organization to deliver the agreed financial goals in the short, medium and long term
• Establishing and maintaining strong customer, governmental and professional association relationships at the senior leader level
• Ensuring Tunstall operate within all legal, financial & regulatory laws and statutes, adhering to any code of conduct which may be in place for their industry or country
• Supporting the overall process of management and corporate decision-making to ensure the organisation maximise its short, medium and long-term profitability and shareholders returns.
• Effectively implement changes decided by the CompanyThe successful candidate will be a graduate, and preferably MBA qualified Managing Director with:
• A minimum of 12 years in commercial business demonstrating career progression through multiple roles of increasing responsibility aligned with a proven track record of success
• Experience of delivering results in a multi- national matrixed organisation
• Evidence of managerial integrity throughout career
• Experience Ideally gained within 2- 3 different companies at senior management level
• International experience
• Strong leadership capability and track record; able to set and execute the strategic vision and direction of a business
• Experience in managing people & businesses through organisational change
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills – able to confidentially navigate across all areas of the business, with a tailored and polished management style.
This is an outstanding career opportunity in which you will play a key role with the Tunstall Group, contributing both strategically and operationally to ensure the future growth of the business across the UK & Ireland, and Globally.If you are ready to take on a key, strategic leadership role in a premium brand organisation, then please get in contact with Vicki Banks at Parkinson Lee on 01709 303330 or email
Assignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Interim Finance Director Yorkshire
Interim Finance Director
Salary: Competitive Day Rate
Location: Yorkshire
Type: Contract
Ref Number: ESAZ-37563Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are currently working with a leading multi-site manufacturing organisation to recruit an Interim Finance Director. Joining the SMT at a time of high growth for the organisation the Interim Finance Director will be responsible for guiding the team of 20+ to drive the strategy forwards for the business.
This multi-site role will require flexibility to travel across the sites, situated in the UK, driving commercial performance.
Reporting to the CEO, key responsibilities will include:
•Full financial management and leadership of a significant multi-site group of businesses
•Developing and executing business strategy
•Driving improved performance across sales growth, margin enhancement, cost control and cashflow
•Development and leadership of the finance team
•Ensuring accurate and timely reporting to the group
•Evaluating business opportunities and making recommendations to the SMT
•Rolling out change and transformation programs
•Budget planning
•Looking at continuous improvement for financial planning, analysis, and forecastingParkinson Lee Executive Search are looking for Finance professionals that can demonstrate the below skill set:
•A Finance Director with a proven track record within the Manufacturing sector, with multi-site experience.
•Proven leadership skills of high performing teams
•Previous experience of working in a matrix organisation with dual reporting line would be preferred
•Sound commercial judgement
•Gravitas to command confidence from the SMT
•Experience of leading change projectsAssignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
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Chief Executive Officer Nottingham
Chief Executive Officer
Salary: Up To £100000 Per Annum + + Benefits
Location: Nottingham
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-37905Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are currently working with D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, in the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer to join their team based within the East Midlands. As the CEO the main purpose of your role will be to provide high quality leadership and support to the D2N2 LEP and its associated public and private sector partner organisations in driving the strategic direction for the economic growth of the D2N2 area and to ensure the delivery of its strategic priorities.
The CEO will report into the Chair of the Board of Directors and will lead, mentor and develop the Senior Leadership Team.
Duties and Responsibilities will include:
Strategy and Leadership:
•Providing energetic and visionary leadership which inspires staff, partners and stakeholders
•Leading the implementation of the LEP’s local industrial strategy and Economic Growth and Recovery Plan which underpins regional and national strategies and is agreed with public and private sector LEP partners
•Responsible for overseeing an annual LEP budget and to monitor performance against budget
•Working with the LEP Executive Team to stay alert to new business opportunities and sources of income through a product and service development programme, bringing relevant and innovative projects to the Board for consideration
•Working closely with the LEP Chair and the Board of D2N2 to oversee the implementation of Board decisions
•Proving management information to the Board on all D2N2 LEP activities to make properly informed strategic decisions
•Speaking on behalf of the D2N2 LEP to represent their interests via press releases, meetings and other forms of lobbying
•Ensuring that D2N2 maximizes investment opportunities from Government fundsOperational Management:
•Leading an effective and high-quality executive support and secretariat function, including line-managing the LEP Senior Management Team
•Actively shaping and delivering a leading and trusted service offering to the private, public and third sectors
•Providing support to the D2N2 Board and Investment Board and overseeing the operation of its advisory boards and sub-board structures
•Ensuring that all LEP objectives are achieved and supporting the Chair in everyday duties
•Agreeing and setting milestones and key performance indicators for the LEP team in order to measure effectivenessRelationship Management:
•Using exceptional interpersonal skills, communicating with a diverse stakeholder group including, the Board, business leaders, local and national politicians, senior public-sector officers and civil servants, education and training leaders
•Developing and maintaining relationships with other LEPS and the LEP Network including neighbouring LEPsParkinson Lee Executive Search are looking for applications with the following experience:
•Demonstrable local, regional and national political awareness
•Strong strategic, influencing and negotiating ability
•Experience in both public and private sector organisations
•Proven experience of developing and driving strategic change with the ability to lead, manage and motivate through change
•Experience of partnership working across complex geographies
•Previous experience at board level working with NEDs
•Proven ability to lead a multi-faceted organisation
•Proven public speaking skills and the ability to inspire and build confidence
•Excellent leadership and communication skills
•Knowledge and understanding of central and local Government funding mechanismsOur client is looking to offer c£100,000 basic + benefits.
Closing date 10am on 11th April.
Face to Face Interview dates: 19th and 20th April 2022
Assignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Director of Group Corporate Services West Yorkshire
Director of Group Corporate Services
Salary: £80000 - £100000 Per Annum + Benefits
Location: West Yorkshire
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-36021Job Description
Parkinson Lee are the retained partner to a fast growing, highly entrepreneurial SME Organisation within Building & Construction Sector currently looking to appoint a Director of Group Corporate Services. Based in the West Yorkshire region. Our client is a c£30 million turnover business poised for substantial growth over the next 18-24 months. Currently employing c100 staff across 3 business units. This role will have 3 direct reports with a wider team of permanent, contract and subcontract staff.
Reporting into the Group MD and supporting the wider Executive Team, the Director of Group Corporate Services will take direct responsibility for managing and leading the groups corporate functions including HR, IT, Supply Chain, Health & Safety, Quality and Administration.
In this newly created role, the strategic development and leadership of these functions will ensure the business is maximising all opportunities presenting themselves. By ensuring the necessary processes, accreditations, regulatory compliance, and quality controls are in place, the successful candidate will afford the Exec Team to focus on their respective roles.
In this leadership position, the Director of Group Corporate Services will work closely with the Board and Executive Team to set strategies around each core function to ensure they are aligned to the overall business strategy whilst setting key objectives that will be continually managed and assessed. Ultimately ensuring an efficient and robust operational / shared service function is established.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to join rapidly growing SME organisation. Parkinson Lee are inviting applications from Directors with the following skills & experience:
•A proven track record of operating at board level within an SME
•Experience of leading multiple corporate functions (HR, IT, Supply Chain, Health and Safety, Quality and / or Administration)
•Ability to develop strategies across multiple corporate functions to align with the business strategy
•Strong leadership and performance management experience
•Ambitious and motivated to help drive growth within the company
•Able to build solid relationships with a close nit team and comfortable providing ideas for divisional discussions to help develop and drive the strategy.This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to join a dynamic and growing organisation during an exciting period of growth.
Our client is offering a basic salary from c£80,000 - £100,000 + benefits
For a confidential discussion about this appointment please contact Adam Dickson at Parkinson Lee on , alternatively apply online.
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
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Interim Chief Information Officer / IT Director Yorkshire
Interim Chief Information Officer / IT Director
Salary: Competitive Day Rate
Location: Yorkshire
Type: Contract
Ref Number: ESAZ-37562Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are retained partners to an Internationally listed global manufacturing company to recruit an Interim CIO / IT Director to join the business in Yorkshire. Reporting into the CEO, you will drive the strategic agenda through your deep understanding of technology, data architecture, digital transformation and analytics, leading and motivating a high performing team in order to drive business goals and support company growth.
Key Responsibilities will include:
•Providing best in class IT Operations Service within the business with full accountability for Networking, Infrastructure and Cyber Security.
•Acting as a key leader and change agent as the company embarks on a Digital transformation
•Driving Innovation, evaluating and scouting emerging technologies
•Man-management, Leadership, nurturing and up skilling the team
•Building strong relationships with key vendors, with strict management of licences and contracts
•Building modern solutions for customers, internal & external
•Guarding all company data, particularly sensitive data, from both internal and external threats
•Providing leadership on day-to-day monitoring for unusual activities, implementing defensive protocols, and reporting incidents
•Introduce constant monitoring for attack and run appropriate defensive protocols if breaches occurParkinson Lee Executive Search are inviting individuals with the following backgrounds to apply:
•Proven track record of working in a senior capacity within a large corporate environment (FTSE 100/250 or equivalent)
•Available for an immediate start or on a short notice period
•A proactive business focused leader with experience of delivering results through large teams
•Experience of driving technology change and overseeing IT transformations
•Working experience with latest technologies, digital capabilities and trendsOur client is looking to offer a £six figure salary (or equivalent day rate)
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
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Interim Finance Director Sheffield
Interim Finance Director
Salary: £Six Figure Basic (equivalent Day Rate)
Location: Sheffield
Type: Contract
Ref Number: ESLB-35792Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are the retained partner to a Global Engineering Organisation in the appointment of an Interim Finance Director within one of their divisions based in South Yorkshire.Reporting into the Managing Director, you will be responsible for overseeing the financial planning process, organisational development, and systems development. Leading a small, highly skilled, finance team, you will ensure the company is well positioned to achieve its short and long term objectives.
Main responsibilities will include:
•Preparation and delivery of the monthly management accounts and associated supporting submissions including for statutory audit processes
•Overseeing and maintaining robust controls over the financial systems and preparing management accounting analysis to support business decisions
•Overall accountability for the development and updating of the costing system, ensuring accuracy, and improving the quality of information
•Leading the team to compile regular financial statement forecasting and the annual budgeting process
•To drive cost reduction initiatives and improved business efficiency through both the sites and the supply chain
•Working alongside the MD to deliver forecasts and maximise business performance
•Provide leadership, coaching and support to the finance team and wider senior members in relation to finance transformation requirements of the business
•Manage cash and maximise working capital and funding requirements to support business growth
•Oversight and development of the capital expenditure strategy
•Challenge current working practices to drive improvements and ensure common best practice processes across the sitesParkinson Lee Executive Search are looking for applicants with the below experience:
•Proven experience as a Finance Director within an engineering, metals or manufacturing business
•Immediately available, or on a short notice period
•Strong leadership skills, able to motivate and direct a small team
•Experience in M&A would be advantageousFor a confidential discussion please contact Lee Bhandal on or apply directly online
Assignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Sales Director - Personal Lines London
Sales Director - Personal Lines
Salary: Executive Salary And Benefits
Location: London
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-36319Job Description
Parkinson Lee are working with a leading UK Merchant Bank to recruit a Sales Director - Personal Lines to be based in their London office. Our client is a FTSE250 company employing over 3000 people primarily in the UK, they support over 3 million businesses and customers across the UK and Ireland to spread the cost of their insurance premiums.
The Sales Director will sit within the Personal Lines division of the business, reporting into the MD. The main purpose of this role is to drive business growth within the division collaborating with marketing, sales, account management, delivery teams and external partners.
Key responsibilities will include:
•Actively seeking to understand Partner needs, goals and business plans whilst building and maintaining effective partnerships with key external stakeholders
•Implementing strategies to drive Value aligned to Partner goals in line with the divisions proposition
•Understanding the requirements of new and existing customers to ensure their needs are being met
•Leading a team of insurance specialists and product owners that work with insurance brokers and external stakeholders to deliver new and enhanced capabilities to support business growth objectives
•Supporting the sales team in acquiring new brokers and managing existing relationships
•Setting and delivering the financial targets & business plan alongside other directors
•Collaborating with the commercial function to conduct market research and analysis to evaluate commercial opportunities (expansion, business development etc.)
•Collaborating with diverse teams including sales, marketing, strategy, and customer service
•Tracking, measuring and analysing performance of commercial activities using KPI’sParkinson Lee are inviting candidates from and insurance / financial services background to apply to this exciting opportunity. You will have:
•A proven track record within a Senior Sales or Commercial capacity within the Insurance sector
•Experience of working within Personal Lines (essential)
•Strong Knowledge of premium finance / SaaS is preferable
•Solid internal and external stakeholder management experience (essential)
•Ability to develop and manage UK and global partnerships
•Open to travel on a UK basis (c40%)This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to join an established leader within the insurance sector to make a real difference in a measurable way
Our client is offering a Six Figure Salary + bonus + executive benefits
For a confidential discussion about this appointment please contact Adam Dickson at Parkinson Lee on , alternatively apply online.
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
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Managing Director Sheffield
Managing Director
Salary: Executive Level Bens+ Equity Opportunity
Location: Sheffield
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-36369Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are retained partners to a highly successful, and rapidly growing Owner Managed SME business within the Construction industry in the recruitment of a Managing Director to be based at their head office in South Yorkshire. Reporting into and working closely with the Owner/Group Chair you will lead the day-to-day management and performance of the company, with responsibility for delivering the medium-term strategic plans, as well as developing and delivering annual business plan targets, budgets and relevant outputs.
You will lead and develop a loyal team in this hands-on role, with a strong commercial and customer focus to drive sustainable revenue & profit growth, and manage substantial contracts through to closure.
Key duties include:
1. Define and manage overall annual targets and budgets, ensuring pro-active management of cashflow and that project/company costs are closely monitored against budget.
2. Leadership and day to day management of the Senior Team.
3. Oversee the activities, performance and development of staff, ensuring succession planning and performance monitoring systems are in place.
4. Implement relevant systems and processes to manage commercial and contractual risk adequately, reduce bureaucracy and ensure that the business is managed effectively.
5.Research and analyse industry, market, and competitors to make informed strategy decisions on developments, market opportunities, customers and suppliers.
6.Liaise closely with a related company, looking for ways to maximise collaborative opportunities to the benefit of both businesses.
7.Establish a close working relationship with the Group Chair, and through this relationship as well as regular briefings and/or papers, keep the Chair and Non-Executive informed and up to date on key developments, opportunities, risks and issues within the business.
8.Ensure that company policies and systems with regard to health, safety and environmental management and quality assurance are in place and fit for purpose.Parkinson Lee Executive Search are keen to speak to people who can demonstrate the below skills for this role:
•A proven track record working at a senior level within the Construction or closely related industries.
•Experience of developing and implementing 3/5 year strategic plans
•Strong commercial background with a hands-on approach to developing and maintaining business with customers
•P&L experience
•Excellent leadership, organisational and management skills
•Strong IT and Processes background, to support the continued modernisation of the businessThis is a significant piece of recruitment for the organisation with succession planning at the forefront. The company are poised to deliver continued significant and sustainable growth over the next five years and the new Managing Director will play a pivotal role in achieving this.
In addition to an excellent six figure package, there will an equity participation opportunity.
For more information on this appointment please contact me confidentially on
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
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Finance Director Sheffield
Finance Director
Salary: £100000 - £130000 Per Annum + + Benefits
Location: Sheffield
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-36492Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are the retained partner to a Global Engineering Organisation in the appointment of a Finance Director within a £130million turn over specialist division based in South Yorkshire.Reporting into the Managing Director, and working closely with the executive leadership team, you play a key role in the implementation an agreed turnaround plan. In addition, you will be responsible for overseeing the financial planning process, organisational and systems development. You will lead a small but highly skilled finance team and ensure that the company is well positioned to achieve both its short and long term objectives.
Main responsibilities will include:
•Preparation and delivery of the monthly management accounts and associated supporting submissions including for statutory audit processes
•Overseeing and maintaining robust controls over the financial systems and preparing management accounting analysis to support business decisions
•Overall accountability for the development and updating of the costing system, ensuring accuracy, and improving the quality of information
•Leading the team to compile regular financial statement forecasting and the annual budgeting process
•To drive cost reduction initiatives and improved business efficiency through both the sites and the supply chain
•Working alongside the MD to deliver forecasts and maximise business performance
•Provide leadership, coaching and support to the finance team and wider senior members in relation to finance transformation requirements of the business
•Manage cash and maximise working capital and funding requirements to support business growth
•Oversight and development of the capital expenditure strategy
•Challenge current working practices to drive improvements and ensure common best practice processes across the sitesParkinson Lee Executive Search are looking for applicants with the below experience:
•Proven experience as a Finance Director within an engineering, metals or manufacturing business
•Immediately available, or on a short notice period
•Strong leadership skills, able to motivate and direct a small team
•Experience in M&A would be advantageousFor a confidential discussion please contact Lee Bhandal on or apply directly online
Assignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Senior Manager - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Selby
Senior Manager - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Location: Selby
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-35773Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are working in partnership with Drax plc in their search for a Senior Manager - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.Drax are a dynamic and forward thinking plc business, listed on the London Stock Exchange who are looking to hire a similar thinking individual to lead their ED&I strategy.
This is a senior position where you will be required to bring the strategy to life and be the subject matter expertise in this field. You will be accountable for leading the delivery and governance of the DEI strategy, supporting the Company’s ambition to be a more diverse, equitable and inclusive company.
You will inspire and influence various stakeholders to deliver the global DEI strategy and use your expertise to support local teams with local DEI plans. Project management, Governance, regular reporting on progress to key stakeholders all form part of this role. Reporting to the Head of Resourcing you will work closely with all levels of staff including the Board.
You will work with external stakeholders and service providers acting as a credible expert voice of DEI within the business.
With a commercial approach, a growth mindset and a passion for change, you will have D&I expertise from different labour markets with strong experience of developing and delivering strategic D&I plans to desired outcomes. You will understand the importance of and have a strong track record in relationship building and influencing skills to operate successfully at senior levels and cross functionally with a personal responsibility to hold yourself and others accountable for performance.
You will be assigned to an office in the North of England where you will be able to visit twice a week.
Generous package with PLC benefits on offer.
This is a truly fantastic opportunity to join this business in a period of growth and change. If you would like more information please feel free to contact Emma Noble, Partner,
Please note any 3rd party applications sent directly to Drax will be forwarded to Parkinson Lee.
Assignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
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Group Chief Financial Officer Leeds
Group Chief Financial Officer
Salary: £130000 - £150000 Per Annum + Equity + Bonus + Car
Location: Leeds
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-11060Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are the retained partner to a highly entrepreneurial, owner managed, Civil Engineering Organisation based in West Yorkshire, in the appointment of a Group CFO. Reporting to the CEO (Owner), you will lead a high calibre multifunctional Finance, IT and HR team, and key responsibilities will include:
•Being an active member of the Board in the overall running of the business to achieve the organisational goals
•Acting as a strong business partner and ‘sounding board’ to the CEO and other Board members, supporting and challenging where appropriate
•Supporting the business in the creation and implementation of both short and longer term strategic plans
•Full financial management of the business to include overseeing the production of monthly, quarterly and yearly reports and accounts
•Developing an FP&A function to deliver MI and business intelligence for the first time that will significantly improve operational effectiveness through more informed commercial decision making
•Strict cash flow and working capital management
•Reviewing the business plan and comparing actual vs projected budgets and making recommendations and influencing at board level
•Ensuring compliance with statutory financial and accounting requirements
•Managing all third relevant third party relationships, i.e. banks, auditors, insurers, funders etcThe ideal candidate will be:
•A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with experience of operating at board level
•An experienced and well established FD, with proven experience operating in a number one finance role
•Experienced within civil engineering, construction or contracting
•Must have contract accounting experience, in particular an understanding of the revenue recognition process for WIP
•A highly experienced, and charismatic business leader with the ability to influence at all levels both internally and externally
•Confident, personable and possess the gravitas to gain the credibility at board level quicklyThis is an outstanding career opportunity, and the successful candidate will participate in a planned transaction within the next few years.
For a confidential discussion please contact Adam Dickson on or apply on line.
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn -
Senior Manager - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Selby
Senior Manager - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Salary: Up To £85000 Per Annum + + Excellent Bens
Location: Selby
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESLB-36454Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are working in partnership with Drax plc in their search for a Senior Manager - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.Drax are a dynamic and forward thinking plc business, listed on the London Stock Exchange, who are looking to hire a similar-thinking individual to lead their Equality Diversity & Inclusion strategy.
This is a senior position where you will be required to bring the strategy to life and be the subject matter expertise in this field. You will be accountable for leading the delivery and governance of the Diversity Equality Inclusion strategy, supporting the Company’s ambition to be a more diverse, equitable and inclusive company.You will inspire and influence various stakeholders to deliver the global Diversity Equality Inclusion strategy and use your expertise to support local teams with local Diversity Equality Inclusion plans. Project management, Governance, regular reporting on progress to key stakeholders all form part of this role. Reporting to the Head of Resourcing you will work closely with all levels of staff including the Board.
You will work with external stakeholders and service providers acting as a credible expert voice of Diversity Equality Inclusion within the business.
With a commercial approach, a growth mindset and a passion for change, you will have Diversity & Inclusion expertise from different labour markets with strong experience of developing and delivering strategic D&I plans to desired outcomes. You will understand the importance of and have a strong track record in relationship building and influencing skills to operate successfully at senior levels and cross functionally with a personal responsibility to hold yourself and others accountable for performance.
You will be assigned to an office in the North of England where you will be able to visit twice a week.
Generous package with PLC benefits on offer.
This is a truly fantastic opportunity to join this business in a period of growth and change. If you would like more information please feel free to contact Emma Noble, Partner.
Please note any 3rd party applications sent directly to Drax will be forwarded to Parkinson Lee.
Assignment Managed By:
Lee Bhandal
Phone: 07590 529 274
Email: l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn -
Director of Product Management London
Director of Product Management
Salary: Competitive Salary + Excellent Bens
Location: London
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-36879Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are working with a leading UK business within the Insurance, banking and financial services sector to recruit a Director of Product Management. This role is primarily based in the London office (c2/3 days) with hybrid working.Reporting into the CCO, the Director of Product Management will be responsible for leading the product function for the required business unit delivering the strategy in line with commercial performance taking ownership of the overall proposition to ensure the portfolio is at the forefront of the sector.
As the Director of Product Management you will immerse yourself within the industry and become an expert within the sector, constantly identifying potential opportunities to develop new products/propositions and take the lead on seeing these through to launch, developing a go to market strategy in order to do so.
The duties and responsibilities of the Director of Product Management will be to:
•Evolve the product management methodology and embed across the organisation
•Bring the voice of the market into the definition of the product strategies.
•Cross functional collaborating
•Create compelling product strategies that deliver on the overall proposition and develop roadmaps that deliver on the strategy.
•Develop Go-To Market processes to build compelling launch material that maximises the opportunity of benefits realisation.
•Ensure the team follows industry best practice and are aligned to bank wide strategic direction
•Ensure all governance and compliance requirements are adhered to and ensure product reviews are complete in a timely manner
•Monitor and track the realisation of benefits
•Ensure the product strategy is linked to the technology strategy.
•Provide senior leadership, strategic and professional management for the team
•Recruit, train and employ high calibre employees within budget, headcount levels and temporary resource requirements
•Coach, mentor, and develop staff, including overseeing new employee onboarding and providing career development planning and opportunitiesThis is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced business leader who has established themselves at Director level, to join and make a significant impact within a top-tier leading organisation in the insurance sector who are embarking on an exciting period of transformational change.
Our client is offering a Six Figure Salary + bonus + executive benefits
For a confidential discussion about this appointment please contact Adam Dickson at Parkinson Lee, alternatively apply online.
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn -
Finance Director North London
Finance Director
Salary: £six Figure Salary + Exec Level Bens
Location: North London
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-36826Job Description
Parkinson Lee Executive Search are retained partners to a North London based organisation within the construction industry who are looking to appoint a Finance Director to work closely with the ELT through a period of transformational change and rapid growth.
This role will have full leadership responsibility for the finance function that supports the core business and its entities (£120m t/o) as they aim to grow to £150M t/o over the coming 12 months.Acting as a key sounding board to both the MD & Commercial Director and providing timely reporting and MI to the wider senior leadership team, your responsibilities will include budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management, accounting process, financial reporting, tax and managing the key relationship with external parties such as auditors and banks.
Key responsibilities will include:
•Developing effective relationships with other Departments and the Board of Directors including Joint Venture Companies
•Completing the monthly financial statements and accounts, including month end and year end consolidated reports, balance sheet reconciliation, fixed asset maintenance for the company, Subsidiaries and Joint Ventures
•Prepare and present financial information papers for the Senior Management Team
•Provide business and commercial financial analysis on acquisition opportunities
•Supporting the preparation of weekly cashflow forecasts
•Supporting the preparation and updating of monthly commercial/ financial budgeting/ forecasting
•Supporting the preparation of the quarterly reforecasting of the commercial/ financial budgets
•Supporting the preparation of the annual group budget
•Supporting the recording of Bid Pipeline/ Secured sales and reporting monthly movements
•Reporting to stakeholders including commentary on material variances and Opportunities/ Threats alongside Key Performance Indicators
•Identify trends early (negative and positive), with the production of meaningful financial Key Performance Indicators/ Ratios
•Developing means to increase profitability and optimise operational costs
•Internal audit of all financial matters pertaining to the business to ensure not only compliance, but also best practice is observed; ensuring as a minimum compliance with Group Minimum Requirements (GMR’s)
•Year End Audit pack and Statutory Accounts preparation, including liaising with External Auditors
•Corporation Tax computation and liaising with External Tax AdvisorsParkinson Lee Executive Search are looking for individuals with the following experience:
•A proven track record post qualification of working in a senior finance position, ideally within the construction or associated sectors
•Meticulous accounting skills and knowledge of procedures
•Positive and constructive outlook, with powerful analytical thinking and problem-solving skills; being able to work effectively under time pressure with a hands-on approach
•Experience within a fast-growing SME would be highly advantageous, coupled with a strong desire to be part of the business
•High level of integrity, being trustworthy and respectful of confidential information
•Show successful leadership skills, being a natural communicator who can influence and negotiate with finance and non-finance at all levels
•Highly proactive approach
•Strengths in information technology skills, particularly accounting packages, and systems (Microsoft Navision understanding preferable)
•Experience of Joint Venture and Subsidiary accounting practices (preferable)As the Finance Director you will be a true financial business partner to the ELT that will progress towards a senior leadership role within the group, therefore, this would be an ideal opportunity for an ambitious Financial Controller with a proven track record of delivery and growth within a larger or similar sized business or an experienced Finance Director from within the industry who is looking for their next challenge and a route towards and ELT opportunity within an established enterprise.
Along with a competitive six-figure salary and benefits package, you will also have an opportunity to earn annual bonus.
If you would be open to having a private and confidential conversation regarding this opportunity, please e-mail your CV or call me directly on 07935 502 755.
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn -
Director of Conveyancing & Legal Property Services Leeds
Director of Conveyancing & Legal Property Services
Salary: Excellent Benefits Package
Location: Leeds
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-36264Job Description
Parkinson Lee are delighted to be retained partners with a market leading Conveyancing business, based in the Yorkshire, to recruit a Director of Conveyancing & Legal Property Services to join their expanding business.The main purpose of this role is to provide legal leadership and supervision, supporting lawyers to ensure all work is carried out in line with the business and clients’ regulatory requirements.
As the Director of Conveyancing & Legal Property Services your key responsibilities will include:
·An understanding of all aspects of the business, providing quality practical/ legal advice and support to the lawyers and the wider business on complex matters, liaising with internal and external parties (including client lenders, borrower’s and external lawyers).
·To manage and inspire the lawyers with ongoing coaching, training and development, ensuring the workload is equitably distributed within the team to enable them to maximise their potential, managing the team effectively delivering difficult messages when required with clarity and sensitivity being persuasive where required.
·Providing continued direction and support to the lawyers to ensure first-class service and that the legal and process support being provided in respect of any matters referred is being carried out accurately, efficiently and in line with business/client and regulatory requirements.
·To assist their institutional lender clients when requested in developing new processes or products, communicating with them in a clear honest practical and enthusiastic way to enable them to build trust in your and the companies’ ability as a business to add value to any proposition.
·To promote the business ethics and values promoting the companies’ brand and focusing on what matters to their clients.
·Identify process and policy improvements, ensuring guidance is maintained and the lawyers are updated with any changes where appropriate.
·Keeping abreast of current property issues/ forthcoming legislation that may impact on existing internal processes and ensure these are adapted accordingly.
We are inviting candidates with the below skills set to apply:
·Qualified Licence Conveyancer / CILEX or qualified Solicitor with extensive knowledge in property law
·Confident in technology focused conveyancing and keen to explore other digital tools to keep the company at the forefront of the industry
·An ability to act as the key contact for the regulatory body and take ownership of the regulatory aspects for the business with time
·An excellent communicator with strong influencing skills who has experience of building strong client and stakeholder relationships
·Exposure to people management experience (preferred) to lead a small team of lawyers
·A practical approach with the ability to identify new policies and procedures to drive the business forwards
·A sound commercial awareness with the ability to make quick crucial decisions for the business, taking ownership for decisions made to protect the business.
·Strong team player with a non-hierarchical approach
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone already at Director level or looking to step up into a Director level role within a company at the forefront of the conveyancing market.
Our client is offering a competitive base salary + senior management level benefits package.
For a confidential discussion about this appointment please contact Adam Dickson at Parkinson Lee on , alternatively apply online.
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn -
Regulatory Director Leeds
Regulatory Director
Salary: Executive Salary And Benefits
Location: Leeds
Type: Permanent
Ref Number: ESAZ-35830Job Description
Parkinson Lee are working with a Global Chemicals Business to recruit a Regulatory Director with a global reach. The purpose of this position is to be the lead on all regulatory issues and management of compliance for the business globally, managing external service providers to support compliance management strategy. You will also be the focal point for PSRA relationships with senior managers in the region and be able to establish effective business controls by country/region to underpin compliance strategy.
Key Responsibilities Include:
•Providing specialist expert opinion and guidance on product safety and regulatory developments to ensure ongoing compliance of products sold in their specific regions
•Proactively monitor new regulatory developments in the region and to develop plans to mitigate or realise opportunities.
•To work with trade associations to influence Regulatory Authorities in the development and implementation of new legislation to minimise the variation and hence cost of compliance globally
•To develop business controls for compliance and plan for their implementation
•To implement working practise to manage regulatory compliance for products on an on-going basis to minimise business risk, regulatory action, and loss of customer confidence
•To facilitate business growth opportunities by taking regulatory action to remove barriers to market and support new product introduction.
•To proactively explore non-standard notification routes that allow for reduced testing and hence reduce the time and cost of new product information.
•To manage all chemical regulatory notifications/registrations in the region by offering a single focal point in the global resource. This will require considerable influencing skills to get an agreement on priorities between different regions and the co-ordinations and instruction of internal technical resource and management and selection of external service providers
•To provide training to country managers sales professionals, R&D scientists, site technical managers to understand the variety of country specific regulations. To provide training in regulatory requirements to develop local expertise and to ensure that all in the PSRA team have a working knowledge of relevant legislationManagement & Key Stakeholders:
The Regulatory Director will have 7 direct reports who will be based remotely across Asia, North America, and Europe. Key stakeholders will include Country Managers, Site Technical Managers, Site HSE Managers, R&D Scientists, Sales Managers, Regulatory contacts at other companies, Industry working groups, Regulators and Regulatory consultancies.Experience Required:
This position requires the job holder to deal with a high complexity of regulations covering a variety of products applications and markets, involving multiple departments across the group where information is not always readily available and can be scattered across multiple locations and departments. To be successful in this role you will be able to demonstrate a solid understanding of financial, commercial and liability implications of regulatory assessments and can influence key stakeholders across the group using a high level of professional diplomacy, negotiation and persuasion. This role will also challenge the development of on-going business strategies.Personal Attributes:
•Degree level qualification gained within a technical field (i.e., chemistry, engineering, etc.)
•Professional product safety specialist
•Expert in detailed knowledge of complex and varying chemical control legislation across multiple regions
•Experiences business leader within large complex organisations with global reach
•Proven track record of managing regulatory programs in multi regions
•Cultural awareness and knowledge of routes or influence
•Wider scientific and regulatory uncertainty requiring expert judgement and informed interpretation
•Significant negotiating and influencing skills and assertivenessFor more information please contact or apply online.
Assignment Managed By:
Adam Dickson
Phone: 07935 502 755
Email: a.dickson@parkinsonlee.com
Online: Join my network on LinkedIn
Parkinson|Lee bring a dynamic and fresh approach to Executive Search across the Yorkshire region, our team have over 80+ years combined experience and we are proud of the executive networks we have developed through our service delivery and strategic advice
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Parkinson|Lee have an impressive and successful track record of completing search assignments across the region, please see below a selection of recently completed assignments. For more information on any of these campaigns or to discuss an impending requirement please contact Parkinson|Lee on 01709 303 330.
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At Parkinson|Lee we are committed to continuous improvement, thought leadership and knowledge sharing. Here we share news and insight into the Executive search market and highlight national and international trends affecting both clients and candidates here in our region.
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01/07/2022 An Interview with Michelle Williams - HR Director at Safestyle UK
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Parkinson Lee Executive search are delighted to be sharing a series of interviews with Business Leaders from across the region. Each month we will be publishing “an interview with…” highly respected Executives from across the region..jpg)
Our ninth interview has been conducted by Emma Noble, Partner, with Michelle Williams, HR Director at Safestyle UK plc. With over 20 years HR experience across various sectors, Michelle is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development.
Safestyle is the UK’s No. 1 retailer and manufacturer of PVCu windows and doors to the homeowner replacement market. The Group’s business has grown from its founding in 1992 to become the largest company in the UK homeowner window and door replacement market, manufacturing almost 200,000 frames and carrying out over 45,000 installations in the last 12 months.
Since joining Safestyle UK in 2017, Michelle has developed the business’ people strategy in alignment with their corporate vision, values, and objectives.
In this interview, Michelle has given an incredible insight into her career journey to date, how she’s overcome some tough challenges and setbacks and how she manages burnout in an increasingly pressured and communicative world, post pandemic.
Interview with Michelle
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Could you tell us about your career journey and how it led to your current role as HR Director at Safestyle?
My journey into HR wasn’t conventional; it wasn’t a conscious choice but something that was forced upon me.
I considered going to university to study journalism, I loved writing, reading and I enjoyed being around people. I would have been the first in my family to go to university. My parents were very proud, but I knew that it would have been a financial burden that they couldn’t really afford, which was a great excuse for me not to actually go as being honest with myself now, I was daunted by the thought of it at the time.
Instead, I secured a job at a Management Development company as an Administrator, and from there, joined a nationwide scaffolding business to support their Health & Safety team. I began to see that profession as a career choice. Soon after, the business was taken over by a PLC and they made huge structural changes - all subsidiaries were required to set up their own HR function. As their “up and coming, bright young thing”, I was picked to change roles to support the HR Directors. It really wasn’t something I wanted to do but I wasn’t given an option.
I ended up working for a fantastic HR Director who opened my eyes to the profession. He encouraged me to take my CPP (showing my age now as that’s the old name for the first level of the CIPD qualification) and then complete my Diploma.
I went on to become HR Manager and was able to recruit my own team, which was a great experience. But after 11 years in the business, I returned from maternity leave and felt it was the right time to spread my wings.
I then joined ABF, as HR Manager for one of their food manufacturing businesses, before moving into the public sector for a short stint, which was pretty refreshing after the grit and speed of my previous role. But funnily enough, I quickly realised that I liked the challenge, fast paced, high volume workload of the private sector, which led me into the role of HR Manager at UK Greetings and it was whilst working there that I completed by Masters degree
In 2006, I landed my first Head of HR role for a private equity backed business, which then steered me into the HR Director position at Symington’s, where I stayed for 9 years. And from there, I returned to the PLC world, joining Safestyle, which has been a fantastic experience.
What has kept you motivated and inspired throughout your career?
On a personal level, it would be my parents and the hope and pride they had for me. Sadly, my dad passed away when I was 30, so he never saw how far my career developed but he was always a strong support.
On a professional level, it’s been more about the challenges I’ve faced over the years and feeling like I’ve done a good job at the end of it. Things haven’t always been easy, but I thrive in high pressured environments.
I’m inspired by being part of a good team, whether that’s an executive team or my own HR team. It’s rewarding to see people grow and realise their potential and I love to see the younger generation coming through and shooting for their own ambitions.
Who has been your mentor and how have they impacted your career?
I don’t really have a mentor as such, but there are a few people that have positively impacted my career, either through timely advice, constructive feedback or just being there as support.
The first HR Director I worked with was there for me at the perfect time, where I didn’t really want to be in HR but he opened up a career path for me. He helped me find my passion. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work with some great CEOs and CFOs, and I’ve learnt things from every one of them.
Then there is my husband. He’s worked all over the World in commercial businesses for a long time, so he has incredible insight and lots of advice. He challenges me and always offers an alternative perspective. He is the wind beneath my wings.
Last but by no means least, I need to mention the employment lawyer I work with, he’s fantastic, we have worked together when I have been in a number of challenging situations and not only have I learnt a lot from him, he always finds the time to ask how I’m doing, and that’s very rare, but very much appreciated.
Have you experienced and had to overcome any major challenges/setbacks in your career? If so, what were they and how did you manage them?
I’ve been through a few challenges in my career. Working in predominately male led businesses, I’ve found that people often see the ‘female’ before they see the person.
Thinking journalism was the route for me, I joined a newspaper when I was 18 , and experienced very inappropriate behaviour from one of the owners, which led me to quit on the spot and never return. I would say that was very difficult to handle at such a young age.
Another challenge was in the scaffolding business, it was decided that all the safety team were to be put through their NEBOSH certificates. I told my manager that I wanted to do the certificate as well, to which he said, “but you’re a woman …. this is construction, male dominated, it’s not for you.”
6 months later, the Group started delivering their own in-house NEBOSH courses and because it was free my manager said that I could attend. I was the only female to take part and was actually the only person to pass – so you can imagine the feeling I had then!
To get through any challenge in work or general life, I’ve always just tried to remain the best version of myself and that has always got me through.
Burnout is becoming all too frequent in the working arena. Having such a role with great responsibility, how have you personally coped with that?
A couple of times in my career, I have been close to burnout. The most important things I’ve learnt is firstly to recognise it, and secondly not to make any rash decisions in the midst of an emotional situation.
HR can be really lonely and challenging; you’re always looking after someone else and there’s rarely anyone looking after you.
I work hard but also make sure I have downtime on a weekend. In a post Covid world, it’s become difficult to switch off, there’s always something going on, whether it’s a Team’s call or chat, Zoom, text message, WhatsApp, email, phone – it can feel impossible to disconnect but you have to do it. Recharging of the batteries is essential. I distract myself by walking 2 energetic Beagles, and by immersing myself in horticulture which is my hobby – I even work for free in a local plant nursery on Saturday mornings. They say a change is as good as a rest, and that’s definitely a change from my Monday to Friday work!
In the current climate, the role of a HR Director, has become even more crucial for organisations as they navigate the challenges of Brexit and the competitive job market post-pandemic. How have you positively navigated through this? And have you had to adapt or change your focus?
Navigating successfully through any challenge is about planning, being prepared, and being able to proactively adapt to the circumstance. I tend to find, if you have the philosophy of doing the right thing, it guides you through.
Brexit has been less of a challenge for us than the pandemic was. Everything we did was centred around the wellbeing of our people and our customers and that was received well. Post-pandemic the biggest issue for us is the current labour market. There are less applicants, competition is high, and we have found that people’s attitudes towards working have changed they are more focused on flexibility, and on the Company ethos and less so on the job. We’ve had to adapt to this to continue to retain and attract the best talent for our business
How do you add value to Safestyle? What are your personal strengths that you bring to the role and organisation? And how do you instil these into your team?
I strive to be a visible leader in the organisation, I’ve always tried to engage with people at different levels and I think that’s added great value to our culture.
I try to be a confidante, a person that people can trust, open up to, and gain support from, wherever they need it. I’m not a HRD, I’m just Michelle. I try to be non-status driven and I find that’s the best way to engage people.
I would say resilience is my biggest personal strength. Some of the roles have been extremely challenging, so I’ve needed strong staying power to navigate through and to bounce back.
I try to practice all of the above every day and let my team see me do that, which is a clear way of instilling these values into the team as they progress in their careers. You also learn from making your own mistakes, so I do take a backseat at times and give the team the autonomy to make their own judgement and if it’s the wrong call, they’ll learn something from that – but my door is always open and I’m always there whenever they need me.
Personal development is crucial, even when you’ve successfully reached C-suite level, how do you continue to challenge yourself?
I think it’s even more important at C-suite level, but I’d also say it’s harder - when you’re in the early stages of your career, you’re actively tuning into learning and developing your skills – at least that was my experience as I studied on the job
I take interest in the CIPD, I take part in regular webinars, use my commute time to listen to podcasts, and I read. I have found that a blend of office and working from home has given me more thinking space to take time out for my own development.
I’ve also learnt and continue to learn from my colleagues. Many of my peers have held senior roles in large corporations, so I really take the time to watch, learn and talk to them – asking for advice isn’t something that does or should ever stop.
What has been your biggest career achievement/stand out moments to date?
My first HR Director appointment at Symington’s has to be mentioned, phenomenal feeling to get to that prevalent point in my career but the one that I’m most proud of is being a part of the Executive Team at Symington’s that won the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association award of large management buyout team of the year. That was preceded by a huge amount of work but was very rewarding; I have very fond memories of that team and my time at Symington’s.
Bringing it back to current times, being part of the team at Safestyle has been an incredible experience. The double-glazing sector hasn’t had a great reputation, but it doesn’t need to be like that. We are really turning Safestyle into a business to be proud of and that gives our hard-working, dedicated, talented colleagues the recognition that they truly deserve. Only last month someone chose a career with Safestyle over a career with Nestle – and that shows that we are truly winning.
For more information on this interview contact Emma Noble, Partner at e.noble@parkinsonlee.com or to discuss how Parkinson Lee could assist your organisation in hiring an Executive or Board Level appointment, please contact our Managing Partner, Lee Bhandal on 07590 529 274 or l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com. -
12/05/2022 An Interview with Adam Barraclough – Partner at EY
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Parkinson Lee Executive search are delighted to be sharing a series of interviews with Business Leaders from across the region. Each month we will be publishing “an interview with…” that our Managing Partner, Lee Bhandal, has conducted with highly respected Executives from across the region.
Our eighth interview is with Adam Barraclough, Associate Partner in Strategy & Transactions at EY. Throughout his exceptional 25-year career, Adam has worked with and advised businesses across Yorkshire and the Northeast regions in the sale and acquisition of a number of high-profile brands.
EY’s purpose it to work with entrepreneurs, companies, and entire countries to solve their most pressing challenges such as, data piracy, guiding governments through cash-flow crises, unlocking new medical treatments with data analytics and pursuing high quality audits to build trust in financial markets and business.
Since joining EY in 2020, Adam has become a trusted advisor for businesses across the region, supporting them through EY’s broader expertise.
In this interview, Adam has given a great insight into his impressive career journey, his major standout deals to date and his expert advice on making it to the top in world of M&A/Dealmaking.
Interview with Adam
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Can you give us a whistle stop tour of your career?
I began as a roadie for bands like the Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi and the Eagles right after university, then thought I’d better get a proper job. So started my career as an auditor for KPMG in Sheffield, qualifying as a chartered accountant after 3 years. Hard work, long hours and exams on top.
I then moved to Halifax Treasury and worked on a special project which resulted in the merger with Bank of Scotland and the creation of HBOS. Following the completion of that project I worked in M&A for BUPA for 3 years before 15 years in corporate banking with Bank of Scotland, Barclays and Lloyds.
I left Lloyds to join William Jackson Food Group where I spent 4 years as head of M&A, and latterly became FD of their Bakery Business before joining EY 2 years ago.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in finance? Were there any particular influences on your decision?
I wasn’t good enough at football or golf, although I haven’t given up yet! I did actually want to become a teacher, but my degree subject didn’t qualify for funding (Politics and History) at the time. Accounting is agnostic on degree subjects, so I applied to the Big Four – and KPMG had a local office that impressed me most at the time.
Over your impressive 25-year career, you have held various positions of influence and leadership, can you share with us, some of your greatest professional achievements to date?
Crikey. I won corporate banker of the year in 2012 and was also nominated for dealmaker of the year but Neil Thompson posthumously won it that year, so I didn’t mind one jot – top bloke and sadly missed. One of my closest friends also died that year so it was a very strange and awful time – great professionally, tragic personally.
I enjoyed my time working with Innocent Drinks from a relatively small start-up through to becoming part of Coca Cola - that was a fun ride. They nearly got me the sack twice but that’s another story – see below.
Best of all is seeing the people I’ve worked with over the years going on and doing great stuff. Tom Beahon at Castore is a great example but so are others who’ve decided to get off the ride and do something completely different, which I admire, I’ve got a pal who rents bicycles in the dales after having had enough of the corporate life and is as happy as anyone I know.
Can you tell us more about what your role of Partner in strategy and transactions at EY entails?
I originate and help clients across the region in both buy side and sell side transactions covering everything from diligence to lead advisory. We are sector agnostic, though I do have a food & drink background so anything that is in F&B I tend to get involved in.
As one of the region’s leading deal makers, what particular deal stands out if your career and why?
I’m not sure I fall into that category, but I’ll mention three for different reasons:
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Synetiq - I worked with Tom Rumboll, CEO at Synetiq, to help lead their merger which was an was an incredible opportunity and we have since become great friends. The EY and Synetiq teams gelled instantly, and we delivered a terrific result. A truly special business, and Tom is a top-drawer CEO.
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CEPAC – strangely enough, this was one that myself and Tom did together back in our Lloyds days. We completed 3 acquisitions, over 6 days for a new bank client, the last one was completed at midnight on New Year’s Eve! That was tough and I’ve never had so little sleep - but it was immensely satisfying!
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Innocent’s refinance – I can tell this story as the individuals have now moved on, but I fought hard to get a refinance and cash out for the Innocent shareholders in 2007. The banks head of credit at that time just didn’t get Innocent and didn’t want to do the deal as he thought that smoothies were in his words “a here today gone tomorrow fad”. I got annoyed and asked him if he still pointed at planes - for which I received a written warning! But we got the deal over the line, and they’ve just gone on to become one of Europe’s leading drink brands.
What are your thoughts on the strength of the UK M&A Market in 2022? And in your opinion, what types of deals are we likely to see?
It is as strong as most of us have ever seen, certainly in my 25 years in this game. Lots of liquidity driving demand for good quality businesses. In terms of types of deals – right across the spectrum from PE both majority and minority, trade deals, cash outs, and the deal you guys have recently done with the ESOTs. No one particular type, and neither should there be, each set of circumstances are different for business owners.
In 2018, you completed a course at Harvard Business School in Executive Education Mergers and Acquisitions: Strategy, Negotiation and Post Merger Management, how have you used this knowledge in your roles since?
That was a cool course. Not sure I’d have lasted 3 years on a degree there, but great fun. The networks you build there are unbelievable. I became pals with a Canadian guy who had been to prison for 12 years and had emerged with a doctorate and now owns Canada’s biggest chain of Dentists and is best mates with Justin Bieber!
The biggest thing I learned at Harvard was the value of storytelling to illustrate and articulate particular messages you want to deliver. If you can’t explain something to a 10-year-old you are either failing to get your point across in plain English or don’t know your stuff.
If you could give the 25-year-old version of you some career advice now on how to make it to the top in world of M&A/Dealmaking, what would it be!
Enjoy the ride, and if you don’t, go and do something else – life is too short. Keep learning and let that be your North Star – when you stop being stretched, learning, or getting new experiences it’s probably time to move.
And keep yourself fit (I try and fail but I try), it’s a long and exhausting career and it’s going to be a lot longer if you’re starting out now.
Oh and have an opinion, your own opinion, not something you’ve read on the internet that sounds clever – that’s not yours - and is dull.
Outside of your successful profession, what are your greatest loves and hobbies?
My family and friends. My football team - SWFC they’ve been ruining my weekends for 40 years, but I love them, nonetheless. I play golf (6 handicap) should be better, but I think I am Seve and go for shots even he couldn’t pull off - ending in disaster. Wine, food and music - did I mention I roadied for the Rolling Stones 12?
For more information on this interview or to discuss how Parkinson Lee could assist your organisation in hiring an Executive or Board Level appointment, please contact our Managing Partner, Lee Bhandal on 07590 529 274 or l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com.
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04/04/2022 An Interview with Tom Rumboll – CEO at SYNETIQ
Parkinson Lee Executive search are delighted to be sharing a series of interviews with Business Leaders from across the region. Each month we will be publishing “an interview with…” that our Managing Partner, Lee Bhandal, has conducted with highly respected Executives from across the region.
Our seventh interview is with Tom Rumboll, CEO at SYNETIQ. Tom joined SYNETIQ as an Executive Chairman, having played a pivotal role in the merger that created the market-leading salvage and vehicle recycling business. In 2021, Tom was appointed as CEO, with overall responsibility for the performance of the business and its people.
SYNETIQ is a UK’s leading vehicle salvage, dismantling & recycling specialist, offering affordable and sustainable motoring solutions. They cater to customers looking for quality used car parts and businesses who want to maximise the financial and environmental return of their vehicles.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything they do. In support of their mission, the company have implemented a “Road to Tomorrow” strategy, which shapes their long and short-term approach to becoming a more sustainable business.
Following a hugely successful 23-year career in various business development, commercial and advisory roles, in large PLCs, regulated industries and high growth businesses, Tom has given an insight into his impressive career journey, how he has led SYNETIQ in becoming the UK’s largest vehicle dismantler with incredible year on year growth and what he enjoys in life, outside the world of a CEO.
Interview with Tom
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Can you give us an overview of your career to date?
After graduating from university in 1999, I joined the Lloyds Bank Business Graduate Training Programme in Newcastle. I then moved into the world of Corporate Banking in Leeds in 2001 and never looked back. During my time there I held a variety of roles, predominantly in either Relationship Management or Business Development, alongside a challenging but rewarding 6-month secondment in a people, compliance and merger integration role as part of the COO’s office. This was part of the Lloyds and HBoS merger integration programme.
The career development I experienced at Lloyds was incredible. Working for, and alongside some fantastic role models, I received feedback, coaching, formal training and financial support to complete external recognised professional qualifications in both Accountancy and Marketing. I gained some extremely valuable and transferable skills and experiences.
In 2013, I left Lloyds Bank to join the Board of one of my Banking clients, Company Shop Group. My initial attraction to the company was through their incredibly strong ESG and sustainability credentials. During the four years I was with the Group, I was a part of a significant restructure, witnessed the company’s rapid growth and had the honour of receiving the Queen’s Award for Sustainable Development, and was presented this by the Queen at Buckingham Palace, on behalf of the business.
I then set up my own Corporate Advisory business, which was how I got involved in the opportunity that became the business, SYNETIQ. I was brought in as an independent advisor to support a 4-way merger, and, after a lot of hard work SYNETIQ was created. We became the UK’s largest integrated vehicle salvage, dismantling and recycling business. Like Company Shop Group, SYNETIQ has a very strong sustainability story. I initially joined as Executive Chairman and in January 2021, became CEO.
Was it always in your career plan to become a business leader and if so, how did this drive your career path to your current position as Chief Executive Officer at SYNETIQ?
It is fair to say that I have always had lots of drive, determination and ambition but my goals have always been to do the very best job that I can, to continuously improve, to make a positive difference and to make my family proud.
With the variety of experiences, I have had, and a desire to constantly challenge myself, I have been given some amazing opportunities to fulfil these personal goals. All of which, have led me to my current position as CEO of SYNETIQ, a role I am very proud and privileged to fulfil.
Anyone who worked with me at Lloyds, Company Shop or SYNETIQ, know I am fond of a quote. This one from Larry Bird sums up my approach to my career to date.
“I've got a theory that if you give 100% all the time, somehow things will work out in the end”
In 2019 when SYNETIQ was established as a result of the merger of Motorhog, Car Transplants, DH Systems and FAB Recycling – what were the key challenges or setbacks that you had to overcome, what were they & how did you deal with them?
Any merger, brings challenges, but a 4-way merger where the Shareholders and Directors of all the merging entities stay in the new business, brings its own unique set of challenges!
The biggest challenge, unsurprisingly, was around change and all that goes with it. I am pleased to say that we successfully integrated the SYNETIQ business by winning both hearts and minds. There was a compelling merger rationale, clear recommendations from the vendor due diligence (undertaken by myself pre-merger) and obvious synergy benefits which were delivered with positivity, integrity, empathy and a care for people at its heart.
Can you share some of your greatest achievements during your career?
A great question! There are lots of things I am proud of in my career to date, starting with winning some fantastic clients for Lloyds Bank over the years.
Taking Company Shop to their first Queen’s Award, delivering a 3-way partnership with a major retailer and a charity that resulted in a £750,000 charity donation, opening the business’s first new “greenfield” store and developing a store roll-out plan that has seen the business grow hugely since I left has given me a real sense of achievement.
In my relatively short time working in an advisory capacity, I advised on 3-mergers, all of which have gone on to great success since.
More recently my career highlights understandably relate to SYNETIQ. Creating the business in the first instance was a real highlight, then building one market-leading, nationally recognised business and then achieving an exit at more than double the value two and half years later was a real challenge, but one that has been incredibly rewarding.
Putting the big headlines to one side, I am so, so proud of how SYNETIQ has put sustainability at the centre of our business and strategy, becoming Carbon Literacy Silver accredited, supporting other organisations in becoming carbon literate and committing to set Science Based Targets to help us become net zero. We are leading our industry to a more sustainable future.
Investing in our people, establishing our apprenticeship programme and creating a nationally accredited apprenticeship for our industry speaks volumes about us, and interacting with our apprentices who are right at the start of their careers gives me real pride and optimism.
Can you tell us more about how you have driven SYNETIQ to become the UK’s largest vehicle dismantler, with year-on-year growth?
Whilst the business that made up SYNETIQ had combined trading histories of over 150 years, the opportunity we had with the new business that became SYNETIQ was to think big, think differently and think long term.
I worked with the Board to agree a progressive and ambitious vision and then set about creating a business that could deliver this Vision.
Putting sustainability at the heart of the business has been a major ingredient in our success, alongside our fantastic people, our commitment to our clients, our technology and innovation and the strength of the foundation the legacy businesses provided to us.
We combined the best from each business’s legacy, added in new thinking and expertise and created a market-leading circular model that is absolutely right for our time.
Having recently led the successful sale of the business, what is your future vision for SYNETIQ and how do you aim to get there?
The future vision for SYNETIQ is the same as the current vision, but I believe that with the brand, proposition, people, infrastructure, client partnerships and momentum we have built, coupled with the resources and support we will receive from our owners, IAA Inc. we will go much faster towards it.
I truly believe the SYNETIQ model can and will become a household name in the UK and internationalise to help decarbonise part of the automotive supply chain across Europe and beyond.
Do you see the importance of transparency in your role as CEO? If so, how do you demonstrate this?
Being transparent, honest, authentic and consistent are essential traits of any leader. I try to demonstrate this at all times and take the businesses best interests into every situation, conversation and thought process. I do not have a secret formula; I just treat others as I would wish to be treated and ensure that what I do is consistent with what I say.
As Mark Twain said, “if you always tell the truth, you never have to remember anything”.
As a business leader, constant and unforeseen changes can be very challenging to navigate through. How do you tackle these challenges head on, affectively adapt and ensure the wider business are all working collaboratively?
I am a big believer in facing life as it is, not how you want it to be, so the first things that I do and have done is to define the current reality and secondly, bring to life our intended future state. From this definition comes both, clarity and a clear goal to aim for and be motivated towards reaching. With clarity and goals, effective plans can be created.
With competent, confident, hardworking and trusting teams, plans to reach these goals can be delivered, and good decisions can be made with enough flexibility and agility to accommodate the constant change in the internal and external environment.
The mindset and energy to continually invest time and effort in recognising, rewarding, reflecting, supporting and challenging in order to sustain and maintain pace, commitment and progress has proved to be a really effective formula for SYNETIQ, in what has been a challenging and changeable period since we were formed in 2019.
What would you say are the key qualities required for a successful CEO?
If I were to distil this down to those that have served me on my journey to becoming a CEO and since, I would say:
- Optimism – A belief that the future can and will be better is powerful personally and infectious for those around you.
- Confidence – A belief that you are capable of delivering a better future for yourself, your team, your business and your industry motivates you to act.
- Resilience – The ability to learn from and recover quickly from mistakes or disappointment is essential to maintain focus and positivity in the face of adversity.
- Energy – The enthusiasm and stamina to be at, and to give your best at all times creates a positive effect on those around you, such that this energy is multiplied many times over.
- Care – a genuine care for what you do, how you do it and who you do it for and with, cannot be manufactured. From care comes authenticity which is so important for building commitment and trust from those in your care.
What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to reach CEO level in their future career?
Firstly, I would say anyone can be a CEO, regardless of their starting point or career discipline. After that I would guide anyone to follow your passion. Build a career in an area you believe in, that is consistent with your values and excites you. Build a career in something you are passionate about where your skills can be put to best use. Self-awareness and knowing what drives you is essential here.
My advice would be to use the early part of your career to both build skills and experience whilst getting to know yourself better; to understand how you learn, motivate yourself, and, crucially, re-energise.
On a more practical note, I would also suggest; investing time in building a trusted network of friends and mentors, making your career decisions based on building skills and learning rather than money, and to always remember that there are lessons you can learn in every situation.
"Great things are never achieved from within a comfort zone" is a phrase that has stuck with me throughout my career. So, with that in mind, my final piece of advice is to be prepared for being uncomfortable and always say yes to opportunities that put you out of your comfort zone. By moving into realms where you don’t have all the answers, but will work hard to get the answers, you'll find yourself at the other side with a new set of skills, competencies, and confidence.
I’m sure that work takes up an enormous amount of your time, but as a family man, what do you enjoying with any free time?
I am blessed with an amazing family, my fantastic wife Emilie and our 8-year-old twin boys Arthur and Albert. We love spending time together as a family walking, cycling, playing very competitive games of Monopoly and watching the boys at their various after school and weekend activities.
Personally, I like to keep fit through a mixture of running and HIIT and I am the Manager of my son’s football team (way more difficult than running a business!)
My big passion is House music and DJ’ing where I love to buy, play and record mixes either live or to post online. I DJ under the name LGRTR where you can find me on Soundcloud (shameless plug!) David Solomons, the CEO of Goldman Sachs is also a DJ, so if it’s good enough for DSOL, it’s good enough for me!
For more information on this interview or to discuss how Parkinson Lee could assist your organisation in hiring Executive or Board Level appointments, please contact Lee Bhandal on 07590 529 274 or l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com. -
23/03/2022 How has COVID-19 changed the way the business work & for the better?
As we reach the two-year milestone of lockdown #1, we are exploring how the changes in the way we work, as a result of the pandemic, has had a positive influence over companies and their people.
Since 2020, many have adapted to new working environments, introduced new technologies and embraced new skillsets, which have subsequently improved how companies operate and as importantly, had a profound effect on employee happiness and engagement at work.Many businesses have used the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity for change, but how has that changed the way they work and for the better?
Flexibility
For centuries, companies were conditioned to think efficiency and outputs were a result of 9-5 hours and an office-based/ on-site set up.
As a result of the pandemic, remote working meant employers had no option but to embrace change and incorporate employee freedom.
Adopting a flexible approach has seen many businesses experience higher levels of productivity, better quality outputs and an overall happier workforce.
With top talent getting a taste for homeworking, many will no longer consider a traditional, office-based arrangement and therefore, businesses across the world have had to reflect their set up accordingly.
For Parkinson Lee, these flexible arrangements have allowed our team to establish relationships with a wider network of executives without the limitations of geographical proximities – enabling us to deliver the best talent from any corner of the UK for our clients.
Digitialisation
In a remote world, staying connected with customers, suppliers and with one another, whilst remaining operationally viable, meant companies had to find means of working outside of the office.
These new technologies have not only kept people together but have also, enabled employees to work more efficiently and accurately with new workflow and live reporting resources.
The outcome of digitalisation has powered businesses and their people with new digital skills and the knowledge to work effectively from anywhere.
Marketing
In this new age, marketing departments have transitioned from a “nice to have” function, to a vital element of any company operation.
You just have to look at the job market to see how heavily businesses are investing in their marketing structure.
In the height of Covid, where the world seemed to have stopped, companies either used it as an opportunity to inherit new technologies to communicate with their customers, through social media and targeted marketing, or stood still and were left behind.
Clever and consistent marketing has and will continue to be crucial for business visibility, in a post covid world.
Work-life balance
For many professionals, and even more so in the generation Z that are incredibly career hungry and money motivated, the work-life balance has been near or non-existent.
The pandemic has allowed employees to slow down, work in the comfort of their own homes, feel more a part of family life during the working week and re-tilt the scale to an equal keel.
Many companies have found employees to be happier and more efficient, preventing the frequent experience of burn-out.
Mental health
Throughout the pandemic, there was a huge spike in mental health issues, and for many, that hasn’t just stopped since life has resumed to the ‘new normal’.
Many businesses were forced to understand and acknowledge the importance of mental wellbeing at work and identify ways to support their employees.
In a post covid world, this is still very prevalent in the workplace, with many introducing mental wellbeing days, encouraging lunchtime walks, flexible working hours and internal and external mental health support programmes.
As we move forward, we hope these positive outcomes will continue to support businesses with innovation, responsiveness and success, whilst keeping workforces happy and healthy.
Our company changes
Historically, Parkinson Lee have operated like many other companies around the world. Our employees were based 5 days a week at our head office in Rotherham and had structured working hours.
Since the pandemic hit, the senior leadership team have adapted and welcomed a more relaxed and flexible working approach. Now offering a permanent, remote and hybrid set up to suit the needs of our employees, with less restrictions on set working hours.
We encourage our people to take frequent breaks, work around their hectic lives as parents and to prioritise their mental health.
In 2021, Parkinson Lee had a record-breaking year, which was a clear demonstration that home working and flexibility had a positive influence over companywide success.
As a result of this growth, we currently looking for an ambitious, committed and experienced Senior Recruiter to join our expanding team across the Yorkshire region.
If you are a career focused, motivated individual, looking to join a highly entrepreneurial, successful team, and contribute to our continued growth and success, whilst establishing yourself with as an executive recruiter of choice with a high profile client base, then please contact our Managing Partner, Lee Bhandal for a confidential discussion at l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com. -
23/02/2022 The Greatest Challenge's Business Leaders Face Today - LinkedIn PollLeadership today is more complex than ever. The growth of technology, sudden market changes and uncertain economic climate has ushered in at an unprecedented and rapid rate.
We recently asked our LinkedIn community of Business Leaders within various size organisations and industries, what their greatest challenges are today.
The results were as follows:
- Build/ retain a diverse board - 8%
- Navigating constant change - 48%
- Staying ahead of competition - 24%
- Future Strategic Planning - 20%
Our team have taken a greater look into these challenges and advised on actions to help navigate through.
Build/ retain a diverse board
The most successful and influential boards are those with directors that offer a variety of skills and diverse experiences.
For many business leaders, introducing diversity into their board team comes as a huge challenge – but one that is vital in steering a company towards its long-term goals.
Diversity encourages new ways of thinking and perspective on a range of consumers, markets and business practices.
To overcome these challenges and establish greater boardroom diversity, we suggest the following:- Increase transparency
- Refresh the board
For those that have been part of a board team for a number of years, falling into a comfortable and coasting way of thinking can be easy. As a business leader it’s your responsibility to ensure each individual on the board continues to influence, demonstrate productivity, passion and commitment. If this begins to fade or there is a greater demonstration of underperforming you need to find ways to reengage your directors or consider a restructure and introduce new proactive members.
- Develop future leaders
Navigating through constant change
As a result of the pandemic, Brexit and digitalisation, business leaders are facing more changes than ever before. Navigating through these and getting ahead of the curve is where many struggle.
We suggest the following steps to support you through these changes:
- Prepare for change
- Communicate with the team
- Focus on obtainable, short-term goals.
Staying ahead of the competition
To dominate your market and stay ahead of your competition, defining your business proposition is essential.
You have to identify and demonstrate your unique selling proposition through your marketing strategy and instil this in your sales team when reaching out to prospective customers. You need to make a clear-cut proposition, that gives customers a reason to come to you rather than your competitors.
As a business leader, aside from product and service offerings, you need to ensure your core processes, strategy and values set you apart from the rest in your market.
We suggest the following steps to help you stay ahead of the competition:
- Know your competition
- Test and experiment
- Be the best employer
Future Strategic Planning
Strategic planning provides structure to day-to-day decisions that follow a larger vision – in program development, building a solid financial foundation and preparing for challenges that lie ahead. It is an opportunity for the board team to share their perceptions and discuss critical issues that may affect the organisation in the future.
An inclusive approach to strategic planning has proven to positively impact a smooth operation, in ensuring key stakeholders believe in the organisation's vision and are committed to achieving it.
We suggest the following steps to help you to plan strategically:
- Mission & values
- External and internal SWOT analysis
- Develop strategies
- Action Plan
By having an annual strategic planning meeting, these goals will stay in sight and can be successfully achieved.
For more information on how to address your current challenges as a business leader or if you are looking to add real value into your board team, please contact Lee Bhandal at l.bhandal@parkinsonlee.com.
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