We are recruiting on behalf of our client, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, for the role of Director General.

Overview:

As the senior executive in the organization the Executive Director will be responsible for overall leadership and management, ultimate accountability for performance and long-term sustainability, setting the strategic direction of the organization (short and long-term) in conjunction with the board, organizational alignment, oversight of day-to-day operations, ensuring goals and objectives are met, risk management, stakeholder relations and all other external affairs.

The role will focus on external affairs and success in this role will be judged by GMCCs influence, reach and delivery of meaningful value to the Greater Manchester business community and beyond. The Executive Director must have the stature, personality, experience and credibility to be a significant business champion and ambassador for GM positioning the Chamber as the prominent independent business representation body at the heart of the UK’s most prominent devolved city region.

Required qualities

• Consistent, high calibre leadership and people skills – that inspires confidence and trust in staff, partners and stakeholders and that can influence senior policy and decision makers (business, political, officials).
• Versatile, high calibre communication skills reflecting complex, diverse external environments and networks. Articulate and concise presentation skills must range from small groups of key decision-makers to large audiences. Media experience.
• Previous experience in the field or a similar industry demonstrating proven success. Knowledge and understanding of the business and wider economic environment. Established business, public-private partnerships networks and contacts.
• Ability to focus on, make progress towards and achieve the agreed goals and deadlines. Strategic mindset who can formulate both short and long-term strategic plans in conjunction with the board.
• Resilience and adaptability reflecting a complex and volatile environment subject to regular policy changes at the local and national levels.

Desirable qualities

• Understanding of business finance and managing a business
• Relevant higher-level qualifications
• Understanding and interest in Greater Manchester/NW – economy, political and social environment, Combined Authority structure, devolution.
• Experience of sitting on/chairing external boards, committees, business groups, steering groups, stakeholder groups at local, national and international levels. Evidence of influencing these groups.
• Experience of a board structure that has a large number of non-executives and a small number of senior executive board members.

No Agencies Please.