Society of Maritime Industries Chief Executive Vacancy

The Society of Maritime Industries (SMI) is the lead trade association for the UK’s maritime engineering and business sector, which is part of an industry which supports £46 billion to the UK’s GVA.  Our broad membership ranges from large prime contractors to SMEs. Member companies select to participate in one, or more, of six groups relevant to their activities in commercial marine, maritime defence & security, maritime autonomy, ports and terminal infrastructure, marine science & technology, and maritime digital technology.  SMI is the recognised trade association for our part of the sector with government.

A vacancy will occur when the present Chief Executive, who has served for over 19 years, retires in the middle of 2020.

SMI is a not-for-profit organisation and provides a wide range of activities both internationally and in the UK for the benefit of the maritime engineering business community. The members’ interests are represented by our six councils and our activities follow our objectives of presenting members with business opportunities, assisting with research and innovation, lobbying government and NGOs to improve the business environment, facilitating network opportunities and providing marketing and other services.

About the role

The Chief Executive is responsible to the Chairman and Board for all aspects of the management of SMI.  In particular, as the Executive Director and Company Secretary to the Board of non-executive directors, the successful candidate will have full responsibility for the strategic direction and sound financial management of the organisation and the allocation of its resources and personnel to meet the objectives set by the Board.

Candidate Specification

The candidate is expected to have a strong understanding of the functions of a member based association and will be expected to demonstrate vision, initiative, and proven qualities of leadership.  Furthermore, the candidate will be a good public speaker, and a convincing negotiator, able to articulate to the membership, to ministers, civil servants and industry the opportunities and issues facing the maritime industries.  Ideally, a background in engineering would be an advantage.

Experience in commercial matters with cost centre responsibility is essential together with a confident and personable manner, able to liaise with stakeholders at all levels.  Excellent communication skills both orally and in writing are crucial.  It follows that a previous career at the top level within industry or the public service will be an important criterion in the selection.

The candidate must live within a daily commute of our central London office and no relocation package is offered.  The job does involve travel both internationally and within the UK.

Closing date for applications: Friday 6 March 2020

For further information please email chairman(at)maritimeindustries.org