Global Managing Director — Vocational Training & Growth, London

We are conceiving a new (vocational) education/training business: A separate business, likely outside Union but within the same beneficially owned group, which would house SeaLearn (for maritime training) as well as training businesses/schemes focused on other sectors.

This role will have multi-sector scope: a new business covering maritime (SeaLearn) plus other sectors (finance/accounting, IT, etc.). i.e. A portfolio across sectors.

We are looking for someone from PE‑backed and other major training organisations; this organisation will be an international commercial training group.

The Position

As Managing Director you will be responsible for the successful leadership and management of the entity. Your role will involve establishing strategic goals and formulating plans to ensure the key objectives are met. You will also be responsible for reporting back to the management team with suggestions and improvements needed to ensure the organisation is performing at its best.

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement the education strategy aligned with business growth objectives
• Lead curriculum innovation to meet evolving industry and employer requirements
• Contribute to business planning, forecasting, and expansion of training programmes

Curriculum & Quality Assurance

• Oversee design and delivery of vocational programmes (apprenticeships, certifications, short courses)
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory and awarding bodies (e.g. Ofsted, ESFA)
• Drive continuous improvement through quality assurance frameworks and performance data

Operational Management

• Manage day-to-day training operations, including delivery teams and resources
• Monitor KPIs such as learner achievement, retention, and progression
• Optimise delivery models (in-person, blended, online) for efficiency and impact

People Leadership

• Lead, develop, and inspire a team of trainers, assessors, and curriculum leads
• Foster a high-performance culture focused on learner outcomes and engagement
• Oversee recruitment, training, and performance management of education staff

Stakeholder & Employer Engagement

• Build strong relationships with employers, partners, and awarding bodies
• Ensure programmes reflect current market and skills demands
• Represent the organisation in inspections, audits, and external reviews

Commercial & Growth

• Support business development by identifying new training opportunities
• Ensure programmes are financially viable and meet revenue targets
• Contribute to bids, tenders, and new market entry strategies

Key Requirements

• Leading/building international educational business’s.
• Proven leadership experience in vocational education, training, or apprenticeships
• Commercial mindset with the ability to link education delivery to business performance
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Track record of improving learner outcomes and operational efficiency

Desirable

• Experience in a private training provider or employer‑led training environment
• Familiarity with digital learning platforms and blended delivery models

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