What is a managing director?
A managing director is a senior-level manager. They are responsible for the daily operations of a company, organization, or corporate division. Their task requires ensuring that plans are being carried out in the most efficient, cost-effective manner.
How to become a managing director?
Many marketing directors start by completing a degree like marketing, communications, advertising, business and management, or psychology.
You may be able to study for a Chartered Institute of Marketing professional qualification alongside your degree through the Graduate Gateway programme. This could give you an advantage later in your career.
You may also be able to begin your career by completing a marketing manager degree apprenticeship before moving on to become a director.
Managing director duties
Managing director duties are diverse and depend on the employer and specialty, but some responsibilities are common to most:
- Provide strategic advice to the board and Chairperson
- Prepare and implement comprehensive business plans
- Plan cost-effective operations and market development activities
- Establish company policies and legal guidelines
- Communicate and maintain trust relationships with shareholders, business partners and authorities
- Oversee the company’s financial performance, investments and other business ventures
- Delegate responsibilities and supervise the work of executives providing guidance and motivation to drive maximum performance
- Analyze problematic situations and occurrences and provide solutions to ensure company survival and growth
Managing director skills
To be an effective managing director, you’ll need certain skills and competencies. The following are often cited in job vacancies:
- Ability to encourage the team and maintain a positive work environment
- Strong leadership and presentation skills
- Quick at decision making
- Excellent critical thinking abilities
- Outstanding oral and written communication skills
- Good analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Familiarity with corporate law and management best practices
How to find a managing director job
These jobs are advertised online, in local newspapers and at your local jobcentre. To find all the managing director jobs near you, you need to:
- Search for managing director jobs on popular job websites such as; Indeed, Total Jobs and CV Library
- Use the DWP’s Find A Job Service
- Check local newspapers and local Facebook groups, especially groups dedicated to local jobs
What does a managing director do?
The job of a managing director varies depending on the job role and the company you’re working for. Check the duties and responsibilities of managing director job advertisements to find jobs that best suit your skills and experience.
The day-to-day tasks of a managing director include;
- plan the long-term development of your company and brand
- oversee brand marketing campaigns
- work closely with the sales and creative teams
- manage relationships with corporate partners
- assess market trends and keep campaigns up to date
- review your company’s financial forecasts and set targets
- attend meetings, conferences and marketing events
- manage budgets