Jobs Archive - Ford & Stanley

Managing Director
Opportunity: Managing Director – Rail

Location: UK

Status:*This role holds a confidential search classification. Please contact the search consultant to request an NDA and introductory call.

Search Consultant: Oliver Nunn

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:
- Rail & Transportation
- Civils & Construction
- Manufacturing & Supply Chain
- Technology & Cyber Security
- Logistics & Intermodal Freight
- Aerospace & Defence
Our search directors, search consultants and in house research team specialise in retained opportunities at the highest level of organisational leadership and management.

Our success is based upon a blend of trust-driven relationships, robust market knowledge, and working practices that ensure the best possible alignment of organisational need with experience and personal ambition.

Working with business leaders on bespoke assignments for over a decade, we understand exactly what our customers expect from an executive search and talent advisory service – whether there is a pressing business need for an executive interim or that of a long-term permanent appointment – Ford & Stanley Executive Search provide the solution.
May 15, 2026
CEO
Opportunity: CEO – Logistics

Location: UK

Status:*This role holds a confidential search classification. Please get in touch with the search consultant to request an NDA and introductory call.

Search Consultant: Oliver Nunn

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:
- Rail & Transportation
- Civils & Construction
- Manufacturing & Supply Chain
- Technology & Cyber Security
- Logistics & Intermodal Freight
- Aerospace & Defence
Our search directors, search consultants and in house research team specialise in retained opportunities at the highest level of organisational leadership and management.

Our success is based upon a blend of trust-driven relationships, robust market knowledge, and working practices that ensure the best possible alignment of organisational need with experience and personal ambition.

Working with business leaders on bespoke assignments for over a decade, we understand exactly what our customers expect from an executive search and talent advisory service – whether there is a pressing business need for an executive interim or that of a long-term permanent appointment – Ford & Stanley Executive Search provide the solution.
May 15, 2026

European Business Development Manager

Candidate Opportunity Brief

Position: European Business Development Manager

Reporting to: Managing Director

Confidentiality: N/A

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:

Rail & Transportation
Civils & Construction
Manufacturing & Supply Chain
Technology & Cyber Security
Logistics & Intermodal Freight
Defence

Our search directors, search consultants and in-house research team specialise in retained opportunities at the highest level of organisational leadership and management.

Our success is based upon a blend of trust-driven relationships, robust market knowledge, and working practices that ensure the best possible alignment of organisational need with experience and personal ambition.

Working with business leaders on bespoke assignments for over a decade, we understand exactly what our customers expect from an executive search and talent advisory service – whether there is a pressing business need for an executive interim or that of a long-term permanent appointment – Ford & Stanley Executive Search provide the solution.

Challenges expected within the first 12 months include:

Selling a product that isn’t built yet: my client has a thorough manufacturing process, and this ultimately means the BDM will be selling a product not yet built.
My client is a market challenger in the majority of Europe: they will need to be proactive in marketing to showcase what they can do and are currently doing in the UK & Germany.
Educating the customer base and changing how they view track maintenance. Although my clients’ methodologies can help them break the mould and complete track maintenance more efficiently, this will require customers to change how they operate, which is expected to be challenging.

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:

Able to demonstrate contract wins in the market and articulate a strong understanding of the pipeline of opportunities within potential customers.
Significantly improved my clients’ brand visibility within the European market and developed an understanding of their capabilities.
Developed strong working relationships with all stakeholders (Including internal ones) with a particular emphasis on those within target customers to begin to encourage tender processes that allow sufficient lead time to manufacture appropriate machinery.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience

Proven background working with current and prospective customer base across Europe, either within OTM or infrastructure providers.

Experience working with long sales cycles

Consultative approach with experience developing long-term relationships with customer bases and collaboratively working with them to achieve solutions.

English language skills and able to communicate competently in one or more mainland European languages (Ideally German)

Demonstrable track record of working in a multi-territory environment – able to understand country cultures

A relevant and up-to-date black book within the desired client base.

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

Consultative – working closely with clients.

Collaborative – the incoming BDM will need to engage capability across the group.

Patient – My client has long sales cycles, and the incoming BDM will need to work with these.

Self-Motivated – this is a relatively new geographical area and will need some energy to get it going.

Working Arrangements & Location:

Home-based contract – able to travel on a weekly basis across Europe to customer sites

Ford & Stanley Executive Search Pre-Submission Process:

First Engagement: A short engagement and introductory conversation to position the opportunity, gauge candidate early interest level and arrange a time and date for a more detailed discussion. NDA sent (if applicable) upon receipt of signed NDA – Candidate Opportunity Brief shared

Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where candidates and executive search consultant explore and discuss the opportunity brief. Candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the key essentials and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstance. The search consultant will utilise the information captured during candidate discovery to start to build your profile on suitability. Recommendations may be made at this point for adjustments or updates to your CV.

The ‘shortlist’: Shortlisted candidates, having taken time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the clients business are reengaged where they are asked to provide additional specific information on their suitability (if/where applicable). Final checks of key notes, package details and logistical alignments made. Finishing touches are then made to your profile prior to submission along with our notes and recommendations.

Clients’ Interview Process:

First Stage: Competency-based interview with the Engineering Director and a Head of Department
Second Stage: Presentation to the Engineering Director and one other Director

Key Accountabilities:

The EMEA Business Development Manager is responsible for executing strategic and tactical sales initiatives within the European sales region to achieve or surpass monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets. This position involves managing an assigned customer portfolio, driving sales growth within the designated territory, and offering technical guidance and support to clients. The EMEA Business Development Manager is responsible for cultivating new business relationships as well as expanding current ones within assigned accounts. Specific revenue goals and growth-related tasks will be allocated for these accounts. The role encompasses comprehensive account management activities, including preparing proposals, overseeing accounts receivable, and coordinating equipment scheduling.

Essential position functions:

Customer Interaction and Management
Oversee all phases of the sales cycle, from prospecting through closure, ensuring a seamless end-to-end process.
Promote and sell both existing and innovative products and services; this includes conducting product demonstrations, identifying potential opportunities, and managing comprehensive sales strategies by leveraging knowledge of railroad customers, their systems, maintenance practices, and requirements
Systematically document all customer interactions in the CRM system, maintaining up-to-date contact databases to effectively support sales activities.
Develop and deliver sales presentations and proposals as needed to enhance product awareness, forecast projections, and negotiate appropriate pricing arrangements.
Monitor invoice status and collaborate with Accounting to resolve outstanding customer payments promptly.
Identify both immediate and future opportunities for new or expanded business.
Build and sustain strong relationships with customers, ensuring timely and effective resolution of inquiries, orders, invoices, and complaints; escalate unresolved issues
Support and coordinate equipment scheduling, relocations, and dissemination of relevant information to stakeholders across the organization. Customer Support:
Collaborate with the product development team and recommend new product line initiatives based on industry service opportunities from assigned customer service needs, including the monitoring and tracking of competitor activity of assigned customers
Manage and develop a strategic plan for upcoming customer service contract expirations
Stay abreast of new product developments and applications for operation on assigned customers, along with staying abreast of developments in the railroad maintenance of way and engineering areas by participating in educational opportunities, industry events, reading of professional publications, and maintaining personal networks
A strong working knowledge of Enterprise products and services and the ability to effectively present them to customers. Knowledge of or ability to quickly become familiar with Railroad products and services, particularly pertaining to maintenance of track and structures

Budget:

Low: £90,000 Mid: £95,000 High: £99,000 (UK equivalent salary)

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search: Client & Opportunity Management, Client Advisory, Recommendations & Offer Negotiation.
Oliver Nunn – Research Manager: Longlisting, Networking, Research & Search, Interviews, Data & Market Intel & shortlist presentation.
Ralitza Kuziva – Executive Assistant: Diary Management, Interview Coordination & Candidate Experience.

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley Executive Search are that of an executive search and talent advisory business.

May 15, 2026

Head of Procurement

Candidate Opportunity Brief
Position: Head of Procurement
Reporting to: Finance Director
Confidentiality: Open

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:

Rail & Transportation
Civils & Construction
Manufacturing & Supply Chain
Technology & Cyber Security
Logistics & Intermodal Freight
Defence

Our search directors, search consultants and in-house research team specialise in retained opportunities at the highest level of organisational leadership and management.

We have been exclusively appointed by our client company on a retained search for a Head of Procurement.

Below you will find a ‘Candidate Opportunity Brief’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Principal Consultant & Senior Consultant of Ford & Stanley Executive Search and the Finance Director and Head of Strategy at our Client Business.

This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

Client Opportunity Statements:

“We are seeking a Head of Procurement to build on recent progress and firmly establish a high‑performing, commercially focused procurement function. Following a successful period of interim leadership, this role provides the opportunity to embed stability, strengthen governance, and elevate maturity across a high‑volume, fast‑paced operational environment.

Reporting to the Finance Director, the Head of Procurement will act as a trusted strategic partner, balancing pace and prioritisation with robust control, compliance, and risk management. The role will introduce more streamlined, commercially astute ways of working, ensuring procurement enables, rather than constrains, the business.

This role will suit a confident, hands‑on procurement leader who thrives on embedding improvement, leading capable teams, and driving tangible commercial impact within a nationally significant business.

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:

Stabilise, embed, and further develop the Procurement team, building on recent progress to grow capability, create clarity of purpose, and instil confidence through clear leadership, direction, and accountability.
Strengthen procurement processes and ways of working, improving governance, pace, and effectiveness while introducing more streamlined, commercially astute approaches that enable the business to better leverage opportunity.
Act as a trusted strategic partner to the Finance Director, operating as a key “right‑hand” advisor with responsibility for managing procurement‑related risk, ensuring appropriate controls, and supporting sound decision‑making across the business.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

§ MCIPS qualified

§ Proven experience of operating in a highly regulated industry such as Rail, Transportation, Energy, Aerospace, Nuclear.

§ Experience of the full procurement lifecycle, including running tenders, supplier engagement, tender evaluations, contract negotiations, contract management, etc.

§ Robust knowledge of public procurement obligations, audit requirements and governance frameworks. Experience of running procurement tenders under either UCR 2016 or Procurement Act 2023 regulations.

§ Able to challenge ways of working and implement practical improvements to processes, systems and behaviours, whilst maintaining trust and engagement.

§ Able to demonstrate leadership of either a comparable function, successful deputisation for a ‘Head of’ or evidence of leading on similar challenges.

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

§ Ability to empower and lead a team and function through transformation.

§ Resilient and able to operate effectively in an agile environment.

§ Inspirational, ability to bring the team on a positive journey of change

§ Strong commercial acumen

§ Gravitas, with the ability to build trust and credibility at all levels.

Working Arrangements & Location:

Hybrid working available; however, it is expected that the candidates are visible leaders at the West Midlands HQ 3 days a week.

Search timescale Agreement

Stage	Agreed Date
Situational Discovery (Role Scoping Meeting)	Completed – 6^th May 2026
Timescale Agreement & Delivery Plan – Issued to Client	Completed – 8^th May 2026
Candidate Opportunity Briefing Document – Client Sign Off	Completed – 11^th May 2026
Search ‘Go Live’	11^th May 2026
Mid-Search Review / Progress Update Meeting with Client	29th May 2026
Shortlist Presentation & Review Meeting with Client.	12^th June 2026
First Stage interviews between Candidates & Client.	15^th June 2026
Psychometric Assessment (If applicable)	N/A
Final Stage Interviews between Candidates & Client	WC 22^nd June 2026
Decision to offer successful candidate	WC 22^nd June 2026
Likely Candidate Start Date	3-month notice – Sept 2026
Mid Notice Engagement Session between Candidate & Client	July 2026

Ford & Stanley Executive Search Pre-Submission Process:

First Engagement: A short engagement and introductory conversation to position the opportunity, gauge the candidate’s early interest level, and arrange a time and date for a more detailed discussion. NDA sent (if applicable) upon receipt of signed NDA – Candidate Opportunity Brief shared

Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where candidates and the executive search consultant explore and discuss the opportunity brief. Candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the key essentials and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstance. The search consultant will utilise the information captured during candidate discovery to start to build your profile on suitability. Recommendations may be made at this point for adjustments or updates to your CV.

The ‘shortlist’: Shortlisted candidates, having taken time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the clients business are reengaged where they are asked to provide additional specific information on their suitability (if/where applicable). Final checks of key notes, package details and logistical alignments made. Finishing touches are then made to your profile prior to submission along with our notes and recommendations.

Our Client Business’s Interview Process:

1^st Stage interview: Face-to-face interview with the Finance Director and the Head of Strategy.
2nd Stage interview: Face-to-face interview with 2 chosen Head of functions.

Good to know:

The Head of Procurement will be accountable for the mentorship and development of a capable Procurement and Property team, comprised of 12 heads.
The business navigates a deeply regulated procurement environment with long lead times, and therefore, they are looking for someone to bring continuity to the function.
The Head of Procurement is also accountable for property and facilities
There is a continued focus on ensuring all procurement activities meet regulatory and internal governance requirements, including the owning group’s Procurement Policy, Code of Conduct, Procurement Act 2023, and obligations under additional legislation.
There is a significant opportunity to shape and leave a lasting impact on both the function and the wider business. The company is clear about the scale of transformation required and ambitious in what it needs to deliver, with strong senior leadership backing and the necessary tools and support in place to enable success.
A strong, welcoming team feeling is clear, making it obvious the business is all striving for the same outcome and on the same journey.
Energy and pride are in abundance within the team and wider business; the people make it a special and unique place to work.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Procurement Leadership

Lead the development and delivery of the Procurement strategy aligned to business objectives and policies, embedding sustainability and ethical practices.
Work to enhance commercial outcomes across all categories of spend, identifying opportunities to secure value and improve contract effectiveness and ensuring benefits are tracked and assured.
Provide advice and guidance on tendering, negotiations, contract management and supplier performance and act as procurement workstream lead for key business-critical projects (including Business Plan Commitments), including attendance at Portfolio Board.
Develop knowledge of key supply markets and suppliers to support effective procurement, sustained performance across outsourced services and the delivery of value for money

Compliance and Assurance

Ensure all procurement activities meet regulatory and internal governance requirements, including group policy, Code of Conduct, Procurement Act 2023, and obligations under additional legislation with the Secretary of State.
Maintain strong assurance standards, robust audit trails and transparent processes to meet internal, DfT and external audit requirements and support reviews, audits and assurance activity as required.
Maintain and develop targeted monitoring and reporting of key procurement activities and compliance metrics, and ensure financial and operational risks are appropriately escalated, monitored and mitigated.

Supplier & Contract Management

Understand the company’s supply chain, determine key suppliers and produce supplier relationship plans.
Strengthen supplier performance through robust KPIs, performance monitoring and proactive engagement.
Promote effective, consistent contract management discipline across the company and ensure clear ownership of contract management, performance monitoring and change control.

Property

Direct and support the delivery of facilities and property from initial lease of premises to planned and preventive maintenance for all aspects of the company’s scope of operations.
Maintain statutory, health & safety and compliance standards across the company’s estate.

Leadership

Lead, support and develop the Procurement and Property team, building capability and talent development, confidence and professional expertise.
Foster collaborative relationships across the business, promoting commercial awareness and stakeholder engagement.
Champion continuous improvement, data quality and best-practice procurement.

Operating in a High-Scrutiny Environment

Navigate complex governance, audit processes and multi‑stakeholder oversight with professionalism and resilience.
Provide concise, evidence‑based insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
Build productive relationships with DfT, parent group and other external bodies.

Budget & Supporting benefits:

Competitive (Please reach out to Emma Barlow for full breakdown of package available)

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Billy Jackson – Principal Consultant: (Client Recommendations/Advisory, Offer Negotiations, Consulting, Networking)
Emma Barlow – Senior Associate: (Network, Research, Search, Interviews, Market intelligence, Longlisting, Shortlisting, Headhunting)
Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant: (Data, diary management and coordination)

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Please see supporting appendix: Executive Search Candidate Journey

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley Executive Search are that of an executive search and talent advisory business.

May 12, 2026

Head of Talent Solutions
Candidate Opportunity Brief

Position: Head of Talent Solutions

Reporting to: The Board via (Chief Operating Officer) with a dotted line directly into (Chairman of the Group)

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:
- Rail & Transportation
- Civils & Construction
- Manufacturing & Supply Chain
- Technology & Cyber Security
- Logistics & Intermodal Freight
- Defence
Our search directors, search consultants and in house research team specialise in retained opportunities at the highest level of organisational leadership and management.

Our success is based upon a blend of trust-driven relationships, robust market knowledge, and working practices that ensure the best possible alignment of organisational need with experience and personal ambition.

Working with business leaders on bespoke assignments for over a decade, we understand exactly what our customers expect from an executive search and talent advisory service – whether there is a pressing business need for an executive interim or that of a long-term permanent appointment – Ford & Stanley Executive Search provide the solution.

We have been exclusively appointed by a consultancy on a retained search for a Head of Talent Solutions.

Below you will find a ‘Candidate Opportunity Brief’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Principal Consultant & Senior Consultant of Ford & Stanley Executive Search & The Chairman & The Chief Operating Officer of our client, a leading Consultancy.

This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the detail that sits behind the job specification.

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:
- Set the strategy, clearly establish and formalise the Talent Solutions offering, including scope, ownership, and positioning, with clear separation from traditional recruitment activity, identify the product suite apart from the Recruitment service.
- Successfully monetise the Talent Solutions Business, invoicing new or existing consultancy clients for pieces of work delivered by the Solutions Business.
- Create and lead a strategic campaign to elevate awareness of the Talent Solutions Business, clearly defining the offering and establishing a strong, consultancy led brand.
Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)
- Strong background in HR advisory, people consulting, or talent solutions, with the ability to operate independently in client environments.
- Proven capability to take a client challenge from diagnosis through to solution design and tangible delivery, rather than offering strategic advice only.
- Understanding of areas such as IR35, strategic work force planning, organisational design, employee relations, governance risk, and operating in regulated or complex organisational environments.
- Experience developed across multiple industries and business scales.
- Proven commercial acumen and project leadership, the ability to lead and deliver a transformation programme of work through a direct or Associate model. (Leading a TUPE process for example).
Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)
- Able to engage confidently at board and C suite level, quickly establishing trust and being viewed as a peer and strategic advisor rather than a supplier.
- Able to balance ambition with credibility and ensure solutions translate into measurable outcomes.
- Ability to inspire teams across business areas and integrate quickly.
- Pragmatic, commercially aware, and focused on delivery as well as strategic vision.
Working Arrangements & Location:

This is a remote role primarily, whilst being on customers’ sites or in the Consultancy’s HQ in midlands as required.

Ford & Stanley Executive Search Pre-Submission Process:
- First Engagement: A short engagement and introductory conversation to position the opportunity, gauge candidate early interest level and arrange a time and date for a more detailed discussion. NDA sent (if applicable) upon receipt of signed NDA – Candidate Opportunity Brief shared.
- Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where candidates and executive search consultant explore and discuss the opportunity brief. Candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the key essentials and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstance. The search consultant will utilise the information captured during candidate discovery to start to build your profile on suitability. Recommendations may be made at this point for adjustments or updates to your CV.
- The ‘shortlist’: Shortlisted candidates, having taken time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the clients business are reengaged where they are asked to provide additional specific information on their suitability (if/where applicable). Final checks of key notes, package details and logistical alignments made. Finishing touches are then made to your profile prior to submission along with our notes and recommendations.
Interview Process:
- 1st Stage interview: A 30–45-minute Teams interview with (Chairman) & (Chief Operating Officer), focused on introductions, high‑level fit, and initial views on the role.
- 2nd Stage interview: A face‑to‑face interview with (Chairman) and (Chief Operating Officer), exploring strategic approach, stakeholder engagement, leadership style and cultural fit.
Good to know:
- This is a newly created and evolving role. The Talent Solutions remit is intentionally flexible and will shape around the strengths of the individual appointed.
- The role will report to The Board via (Chief Operating Officer) with a dotted line directly into (Chairman of the Group) for ongoing development of the offering.
- The role has been created to bring leadership, structure, and credibility to the Talent Solutions business area within the Consultancy, moving it from fragmented activity into a focused, and commercially impactful proposition.
- The Consultancy is in a key growth phase wanting to move from around 60 employees to 120.
- Although this is a new position within the Group, it is not a “cold start”, with an extensive portfolio of established client relationships at a top level.
- This role will focus on building upon existing leadership development, performance and mental well-being coaching services. This is likely to include capability spanning workforce strategy, attraction, assessment, on-boarding, governance, and employee experience.
- High degree of autonomy to define and shape the overall proposition, service offering, and delivery model, with the freedom to influence direction from the outset.
- A clear and credible pathway to building and scaling a significant business unit, with long term growth and leadership opportunity.
- Joining an established brand, that provides deeply consultative recruitment partnerships from shop floor all the way to boardroom.
- The Consultancy operates in a fast moving, evolving environment, requiring the ability to prioritise, adapt quickly, and make progress amid changing market dynamics and competing demands.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and shape the Talent Solutions proposition, own the design, development, and evolution of the consultancy, ensuring clear differentiation from traditional recruitment services.
- Operate as a senior talent advisor to clients engage with HR Directors, MDs, and C suite stakeholders on Talent Solutions.
- Deliver commercially viable Talent Solutions translate client needs into structured, outcome led solutions ensuring delivery drives measurable value and revenue.
- Deepen and expand client relationships leverage existing relationships to create broader, multi-service partnerships, distinct from the recruitment services
- Own end-to-end solution delivery and oversee the design, execution, and evaluation of Talent Solutions engagements, ensuring quality, credibility, and client satisfaction.
- Build and manage delivery capability Coordinate internal teams and external specialist partners to deliver Talent Solutions effectively.
- Establish credibility and direction, acting as the internal authority on Talent Solutions, aligning stakeholders around scope, positioning, and go to market approach.
- Lay the foundations for sustainable growth of the Talent Solutions offering, identifying future opportunities, services, and routes to market.
Executive Search Delivery Team:
- Billy Jackson – Principal Consultant: (Client Recommendations/Advisory, Offer Negotiations, Consulting, Networking)
- Josh Winfield– Senior Consultant: (Network, Research, Search, Interviews, Market intelligence, Long listing, Shortlisting, Headhunting)
- Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant: (Data, diary management and coordination)
About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Please see supporting appendix: Executive Search Candidate Journey

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley Executive Search are that of an executive search and talent advisory business.
May 7, 2026
Managing Consultant
Ford & Stanley Executive Search sits within a privately owned, high-growth talent services group operating across recruitment, leadership, and performance consultancy. With a £30m turnover, sustained 40%+ growth, and multiple long-term retained partnerships, we advise organisations where leadership quality is business critical.

Our Executive Search business is retained and exclusive with every assignment being a true committed partnership. We have been on an incredible growth journey over the last three years that has seen us grow over 300% and are now at a point where we are looking to expand our exceptional team. Our culture is one of high performance. whilst ensuring honesty, integrity, longevity and genuinely enjoying what we do.

The Role

As a Managing Consultant, you will operate as a trusted advisor to partnered clients, delivering a full executive search lifecycle with a strong focus on premium, white-glove solutions. Ford & Stanley Executive Search works exclusively on a retained search basis across multiple disciplines and sectors.

Key Responsibilities
- Manage the end-to-end recruitment process, from initial client briefing through to offer management and onboarding
- Deliver executive and senior-level search assignments, including market mapping, headhunting, and candidate engagement
- Provide a white-glove service, ensuring an exceptional, tailored experience for clients and candidates
- Complete sales, business development and relationship development responsibilities to build and maintain long-term, strategic client relationships
- Offer insight and guidance on talent strategy, market conditions, and hiring trends
- Maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discretion, and service delivery
About You
- Proven experience managing the full recruitment cycle within a recruitment consultancy environment
- Background in Executive Search or senior-level recruitment
- Experience in retained search is an advantage but not essential
- Confident engaging with senior stakeholders and C-suite clients
- Consultative, relationship-led approach with a focus on quality over volume
- Commercially astute, well-organised, and results-driven
- Professional, credible, and articulate communicator motivated by quality, reputation, and long-term impact
- Aligned to a collaborative, values-led culture
- Desirable: Experience in retained or executive search is advantageous, but not essential.
About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley Executive Search are that of an executive search and talent advisory business.
April 28, 2026

Head of Sales (SaaS)

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:

Rail & Transportation
Civils & Construction
Manufacturing & Supply Chain
Technology & Cyber Security
Logistics & Intermodal Freight
Defence

Our search directors, search consultants and in-house research team specialise in retained opportunities at the highest levels of organisational leadership and management.

We have been exclusively appointed by a Transportation business on a retained search for a Head of Sales( SaaS)

Below you will find a ‘Candidate Opportunity Brief’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Head of Executive Search, Senior Consultant and the Business Development Director.

This brief is designed to give candidates a deeper insight into the opportunity inherent within the role, the challenges the role presents, and provide access to the details that sit behind the job specification.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

The role requires an established ‘black book’ of senior Transportations sector contacts, enabling direct access to key decision makers.

Experience within long sales cycles, typically 18 to 22 months.

SaaS / software / technology led sales experience with a complete understanding of associated commercial models.

Strong understanding of the UK Transportation Business industry

Capability of building and managing a qualified pipeline, providing clarity on future revenue and growth rather than relying on ad hoc or low hanging opportunities.

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

Self-awareness, gravitas.

Stakeholder management.

Ability to inspire teams across different business areas.

A measured and considered approach to sales.

Working Arrangements & Location:

Flexible working available. With the requirement of being in office once every two weeks / twice per month

Ford & Stanley Executive Search Pre-Submission Process:

First Engagement: A short engagement and introductory conversation to position the opportunity, gauge candidate’s early interest level and arrange a time and date for a more detailed discussion. NDA sent (if applicable) upon receipt of signed NDA – Candidate Opportunity Brief shared.
Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where candidates and executive search consultant explore and discuss the opportunity brief. Candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the key essentials and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstances. The search consultant will utilise the information captured during candidate discovery to start to build your profile on suitability. Recommendations may be made at this point for adjustments or updates to your CV.
The ‘shortlist’: Shortlisted candidates, having taken time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the client’s business are reengaged where they are asked to provide additional specific information on their suitability (if/where applicable). Final checks of key notes, package details and logistical alignments made. Finishing touches are then made to your profile before submission along with our notes and recommendations.

Interview Process:

1st Stage Interview: A 30–45 minute Teams interview with (Business Development Director) and (Chief Operating Officer)
2nd Stage Interview: A face-to-face interview Exploring strategic approach, stakeholder engagement, leadership style and cultural fit.

Good to knows:

Our client are at a critical point in the growth of there software product with the market relatively untapped and an opportunity to capitalise on a relatively new capability.

They currently hold about 20% market share with limited visibility of where the other 20% fits and an opportunity to develop a strategy that develops that.

This role comes with 2 direct reports.

The Head of SaaS will operate at a senior level, with a direct reporting line to the Business Development Director and close day to day interaction with the Chief Operating Officer within a flat organisational structure.

This role is ultimately driving the growth of the software product . A scalable, data aggregation and integration platform.

The business is on an upward trajectory and will be turning over a profit this year.

Our client is already applying AI within there software product but sees a significant untapped opportunity to provide a single point of contact.

Our client operates in a fast moving, evolving environment, requiring the ability to prioritise, adapt quickly, and make progress amid changing market dynamics and competing demands

Key Responsibilities:

Define and lead the strategy for the software product to scale the business beyond its current ~20% market share, identifying where future growth sits across.

Increase the size, quality and visibility of the sales pipeline, moving beyond incumbent and low‑hanging opportunities to support long, complex sales cycles.

Engage senior decision‑makers at MD / CxO level, leveraging an established network to accelerate access, influence and commercial outcomes.

Raise senior‑level awareness of the platform, ensuring key stakeholders understand its capability, value and future potential.

Develop and execute a structured go‑to‑market approach, replacing ad‑hoc selling with clear prioritisation and account focus.

Lead and develop the commercial team, providing direction, structure and support within a flat, high‑autonomy environment.

Provide clear commercial insight to senior leadership, offering pipeline visibility, market intelligence and confidence in future growth.

Feed market and customer insight into product direction, helping shape roadmap priorities, including AI‑driven use cases.

Budget:

Competitive salary Available

Supporting benefits

Car Allowance

Salary reviews: Annually

Holidays: Standard holiday entitlement of 25 days increases to 27 days after 4 years

Additional day leave for birthday.

Pension

Life Insurance

Critical Illness cover

Employee Assistance Programme

Buy and Sell Annual Leave

Cycle to Work Scheme

Enhanced maternity/paternity and adoption leave

Private medical insurance

Additional details will be shared once a call is booked in.

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search: (Client Recommendations/Advisory, Offer Negotiations, Consulting, Networking)
Josh Winfield – Senior Consultant (Headhunting, Networking, Research, Search, Longlisting, Interviews, Data & Market Intel, Market Intelligence & Shortlisting)
Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant: (Data, Diary Management and Coordination)

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:

Please see the supporting appendix: Executive Search Candidate Journey

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an ongoing basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs. We place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley Executive Search are those of an executive search and talent advisory business.

April 23, 2026

Head of Health, Safety, Quality and Environment

Position: Head of HSQE

Reporting to: HSQE Director

Confidentiality: N/A

Ford & Stanley Executive Search (Part of the Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group) are a leading Executive search and talent advisory firm specialising in the following sectors:

Rail & Transportation
Civils & Construction
Manufacturing & Supply Chain
Technology & Cyber Security
Logistics & Intermodal Freight
Defence

Our search directors, search consultants and in house research team specialise in retained opportunities at the highest level of organisational leadership and management.

We have been exclusively appointed by our client company on a retained search for a Head of HSQE.

Below you will find a ‘Candidate Opportunity Brief’ developed from notes taken during the scoping meeting (Situational Discovery) held between the Research Manager of Ford and Stanley Executive Search, Senior Consultant Ford and Stanley Executive Search, Head of HR and the Interim HSQE Director.

Client Opportunity Statements:

“We are entering an exciting new chapter and looking for a Head of HSQE who wants to play a defining role in shaping it.”

“This is a rare opportunity to join an organisation whilst its identity is being forged. Our strategy is clear, well‑structured, and already delivering results. We are on track to meet the requirements of the new concession and to maintain our Safety Certificate and Safety Authorisation and the incoming Head of HSQE will be essential to the success of this.”

“You will lead the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of our Safety Management Systems and Environmental Management Systems, ensuring they remain robust, compliant, and forward‑looking in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. This is your opportunity to help define the future of a world‑class transportation service.”

Key deliverables within the first 12 months include:

Well-structured and communicated strategy plan for the business unit.
On track to deliver the new concession and continue to maintain the Safety Certificate and Safety Authorisation.
Develop, maintain and continually improve the SMS and EMS in line with legal and regulatory requirements.

Essential Hard Skills (Skills & Experience)

§ Candidates are required to have a strong understanding of railway operations

§ They must have the ability to liaise with regulators and senior stakeholders both internally and externally.

§ Demonstratable background in managing teams and developing a positive safety culture within an organisation

§ Strong track record of being able to operate both strategically and in a ‘hands-on’ manner

§ Member of IOSH, NEBOSH Diploma Qualified / holds a degree.

§ Effective written and verbal communication, ability to negotiate and present effectively.

§ Desirable: Environmental Qualification

Essential Soft Skills (Attributes & Behaviours)

§ Naturally transparent leader who understands the value in respectful, open communication

§ An enabler of positive safety culture, a passionate, practical and enthusiastic leader.

§ Level-headed and collaborative in their approach throughout all levels of business.

§ Ability to influence at all levels

Working Arrangements & Location:

Based 3 days per week at HQ in Central London, with 2 days working from home.

Ford & Stanley Executive Search Pre-Submission Process:

First Engagement: A short engagement and introductory conversation to position the opportunity, gauge candidate early interest level and arrange a time and date for a more detailed discussion. NDA sent (if applicable) upon receipt of signed NDA – Candidate Opportunity Brief shared.

Candidate Discovery: An open, conversational and consultative discussion where candidates and executive search consultant explore and discuss the opportunity brief. Candidates are assessed on their suitability for the role in the context of the key essentials and challenged on how the opportunity lines up with their career aspirations, motivations, financial expectations and personal circumstance. The search consultant will utilise the information captured during candidate discovery to start to build your profile on suitability. Recommendations may be made at this point for adjustments or updates to your CV.

The ‘shortlist’: Shortlisted candidates, having taken time to reflect on the opportunity and undertake subsequent research on the clients business are reengaged where they are asked to provide additional specific information on their suitability (if/where applicable). Final checks of key notes, package details and logistical alignments made. Finishing touches are then made to your profile prior to submission along with our notes and recommendations.

Our Client Company’s Interview Process:

1st Stage interview: Competency-based interview with the People Director and interim Director of HSQE.
2nd Final Stage interview: Face-to-face interview focusing on cultural fit.

Good to know:

An industry-leading transportation business, bringing together the very best expertise to transform travel across London.
It is important to note the new line is one of the busiest in the country with hundreds of thousands of journeys in a day.
This opportunity has arisen due to the current health and safety leader leaving the business in March; the business have since expanded this role to include quality and environment responsibilities.
This individual will have 4-7 capable and experienced direct reports, the Head of HSQE will report into the Interim HSQE Director.
The Head of Safety, Quality and Environment is a senior leadership role responsible for the strategic oversight, governance, and assurance of safety and environment across the organisation. This role ensures that all operations are conducted in accordance with regulatory requirements, industry best practice, and the Safety Management System (SMS) and Environmental Management System (EMS).
This role requires a proactive, evidence-based leader who can influence culture, be a driver of organisational learning and develop a safety-first mindset across all business functions, ensuring that the business maintains a valid Safety Certificate, Safety Authorisation and ISO certifications.
The post holder will lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the SMS and EMS, providing assurance to the Executive Team, regulators, and other stakeholders that safety risks are effectively identified, assessed and controlled. They will also lead the delivery of audit, inspection, and assurance programmes, ensuring findings are translated into actionable improvements.
This person will be required to oversee safety-related audit, inspection and assurance programmes, ensuring findings drive measurable improvements.
The organisation is going through an exciting period of change; this allows the individual joining the business to really make their mark on this role and the changes they are going through.
With a very authentic and strong valued team, it is a positive culture to join.

Competitive Budget & Supporting benefits

(Please contact me directly for full disclosure of benefits and salary banding)

Executive Search Delivery Team:

Tom Norton – Head of Executive Search: (Client Recommendations/Advisory, Offer Negotiations, Consulting, Networking, Shortlisting)
Oliver Nunn – Research Manager: (Networking, Research, Search, Interviews)
Emma Barlow – Senior Associate: (Market intelligence, Longlisting, Shortlisting, Headhunting)
Ralitsa Kuzeva – Executive Assistant: (Data, diary management and coordination)

About Ford & Stanley Executive Search:
Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy.

Services advertised by Ford & Stanley Executive Search are that of an executive search and talent advisory business.

April 20, 2026