Business Unit Director jobs
As logistics operations grow larger or diversify into other sectors, the normal management tree can start to show signs of strain as the need for excessive micromanagement leads to inefficiencies. It’s sometimes best to ring-fence a particular aspect of the business, which can either be geographical, sector-based or hierarchical, and treat is as a self-contained business with its own internal hierarchy and chain of command. The business unit will, of course, still be a part of the main company, but it will be granted a high degree of autonomy as long as it meets the board’s mission statement and income requirements.
The business unit director in logistics might have a busy depot or warehouse under his or her control, and to all intents and purposes it will be a company in its own right, with budgets, staffing and operations management to deal with. If the business unit is brand new, the director will need to fill it with a new structure of managers and staff. If it is a partitioned section of the existing business, much of the staffing will already be present, but the director will need to adjust the structure to take account of the new mode of operation.
On an ongoing basis, the role will involve setting strategic targets for operations and running the business from day to day, with the assistance of management layer. It will also involve recruitment, training, health and safety, personnel and dealing with grievances. While the unit will have contact with the rest of the business, it could be minimal, especially if everything is going as planned and targets are being met or exceeded.
The skills required
The job of business unit director would suit a self-starter who relishes the chance to run a de facto business with little interference from above. Although the amount of management from head office will vary from company to company, in some cases this could be minimal, and the business unit director will need to be able to cope with that responsibility. The role is often awarded to people who have already run the unit in all but name before its creation, but anyone with management experience, particularly in the sector in question, will be at an advantage.
Excellent people management and communication skills are a given, as without these the unit will not succeed. Directorships do not always involve day to day contact with management and staff, but under the unique conditions of the business unit, the director will have more in common with a general manager and must pitch his or her leadership in that context.
Business Unit Director Jobs in Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne has long been an important location in Britain. During Roman times, a fort called Pons Aelius was erected and served as the eastern end of Hadrian's Wall, while the Duke of Normandy built a castle here in 1080.
In the Middle Ages, Newcastle was a fortress on the northern border during the wars against Scotland. By the 16th century, the area had become known for its coal production. The city enjoyed a monopoly on shipping the fuel and thus created a rivalry with other nearby towns like Tyneside and Sunderland.
Printing, glassworks and shipbuilding were a big part of the city's economy as the Industrial Revolution took hold. Then, 19th century innovations such as safety lamps, improved milling techniques, electricity generation and light bulbs paved the way for the city's prosperity.
Of course, you can't forget one of Newcastle's most beloved products: Newcastle Brown Ale. Also known as Newkie Broon, this drink first went into production in 1928 and has been a favourite beverage ever since. Production, however, has been moved to North Yorkshire.
Today, the Tyneside conurbation is among the 10 most populous in the UK, making it a good choice for those seeking new Business Unit Director vacancies.
Heavy industry has declined over the last 50 years, to be replaced mainly with retail and the service sector. Just some of the many companies that are headquartered or have regional offices in the city include Greggs the baker, the Go-Ahead Group, Northern Rock, Proctor & Gamble UK and Sage, an enterprise software company.
Popular locations
Cast UK’s logistics opportunities
Our founder members and consultants all have backgrounds in logistics, procurement and supply chain, so we know what employers and candidates are looking for in their staff and careers respectively. Thanks to this focus, many employers come to us first to create a candidate shortlist because they know we’ll deliver the best people to them. Please see what’s available in your region and if you’ve seen something you’re interested in, do get in touch – whether it’s today or tomorrow, we might have the best position for you.
People approach Cast UK for a number of reasons, whether seeking more job fulfilment or simply relocating with the family, so it’s good to know that we always have the complete range of positions available nationwide. We are a growing force in logistics, procurement and supply chain recruitment, partly because these are the only sectors we deal with.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Business Unit Director for your business or find you a job as a Business Unit Director then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
Contact us