Managing Director

Job role
Managing Director (SMF1)

Reports to
Chair

Location
Office in Leeds, LS15 8ZB

Package

• Competitive salary plus bonus dependent on experience, plus these benefits:
• 25 days holiday – plus bank holidays
• Birthday day off
• Holiday purchase scheme
• Flexible working hours
• Cash healthcare plan
• Cycle to work scheme
• Car share scheme
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Gym discounts
• Access to training

Hours of work
37.5 hours per week. Hours of work will be flexible and dictated by the needs of the business, therefore it is expected that the successful applicant will work those hours necessary to successfully discharge the duties of the role. Out of hours cover is also required as per a rota.

About the role – Overview

As Managing Director (SMF1) of Age Partnership (AP), you will hold full responsibility for the strategic leadership, operational performance, culture, and regulatory compliance as an FCA-authorised firm. You will act as both SMF1 and SMF3, ensuring the business meets all obligations under the Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SMCR) and consistently delivers good customer outcomes under Consumer Duty. Age Partnership operates within Sovereign Life Group (SLG), but as MD you will retain ultimate accountability for the governance, conduct, and performance of the regulated entities in Age Partnership Group.

You will work in close partnership with SLG to ensure strategic alignment and to maximise synergies, whilst maintaining independent judgement and clear decision-making authority for the firm’s regulated activities. Working closely with the senior leadership, you will lead Age Partnership in delivering sustainable growth, operational excellence, and digital and AI-enabled transformation in support the wider Group’s vision.

Main responsibilities

• Customer First: Champion customer-centric initiatives that enhance the overall customer experience, foster loyalty and repeat business, and ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality advice and service. Embed Consumer Duty principles throughout the business, ensuring all decisions and propositions deliver fair value and good outcomes for customers.
• Leadership & Strategy: Provide strategic leadership across Age Partnership, setting a clear direction and culture that supports both business performance and SLG objectives. Translate strategic goals into operational plans and ensure delivery against key commercial, customer, and regulatory targets.
• Governance & Board Accountability: Hold FCA SMF1 and SMF3 responsibilities, ensuring effective governance, accountability, and oversight. Maintain strong systems, controls, and clear delegation under SMCR. Work closely with the Board and Executive Leadership Team to ensure informed decision-making.
• Business Performance: Take full ownership of the financial and commercial performance of Age Partnership, working closely with the Group Finance Director to ensure effective budgeting, forecasting, and capital management. Deliver sustainable profitability through disciplined cost control, operational efficiency, and growth in revenue-generating activities.
• Compliance &
  
  Risk Management:
  
  Ensure all activities comply with FCA requirements and exceed expectations under Consumer Duty. Work with the Compliance Director to embed robust regulatory frameworks and maintain effective risk management.
• Innovation & Product Development: Collaborate with the Group Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Advice Officer to develop and launch products and propositions that meet evolving customer needs and market trends. Encourage innovation that leverages data and technology to add value and efficiency.
• Innovation, Digital & AI Transformation: Lead and support digital transformation, working closely with the Group Chief Technology Officer to harness automation, AI, and data-led innovation. Champion new technologies that enhance customer experience, operational efficiency, and scalability.
• People & Culture: Lead, inspire, and develop the senior leadership team and wider business to create a high-performing, customer-focused culture aligned with the Group Guiding Principles. Set clear objectives and performance expectations, promoting accountability and…