Job Introduction
MEP Hire, part of the Vp plc group, is a leading rental business specialising in Mechanical and Electrical equipment and low-level access hire supporting the building services sector.
As part of our continued growth and following the acquisition of Excel Tool Hire (A specialist M&E Hire business in Naas), we are expanding into the Irish market and looking for an entrepreneurial and commercially driven General Manager to lead this exciting new venture.
Reporting to the Managing Director, this is a high-profile business-building role with responsibility for establishing, growing and scaling the MEP Hire business in Ireland.
You will lead the development of our market presence, build a strong and sustainable customer base, and deliver profitable growth in a structured, well-supported environment.
While the role carries full P&L responsibility, the initial focus will be on market development and momentum and will be supported by experienced operations and sales colleagues from the UK business.
The Role:
- Lead the development and penetration of the Irish market, building a strong local presence and winning new business
- Build and maintain key relationships with customers, partners and stakeholders, developing a deep understanding of the local market and competitive landscape
- Provide overall leadership of the Ireland operation, developing the existing team and building capability as the business grows
- Create a high-performing, commercially focused depot culture that balances customer service with operational discipline
- Oversee operational performance across fleet, workshop, transport and hire desk, ensuring efficiency, utilisation and service excellence with the support of the local branch team and UK Operations teams.
- Maintain effective stock control and asset management, ensuring the business grows without compromising utilisation or delivery capability
- Drive a strong Health & Safety culture and ensure full compliance with company and regulatory standards
- Deliver revenue growth through direct customer engagement, working closely with the Regional Sales Manager and established sister businesses in Ireland (CPH Hire and Groundforce)
- Take accountability for P&L performance, managing costs and driving improvements in margin, utilisation and profitability
- Work in close collaboration with CPH Hire, Groundforce and wider Vp Group teams, developing a joined-up approach in Ireland
- Act as the key link between the Ireland operation and UK leadership teams, ensuring alignment while maintaining local agility
What We’re Looking For
- We are looking for someone who can build a business, not just manage one.
- Strong operational and commercial experience within equipment rental, plant hire, merchanting, building services or a similar service-led industry
- Proven track record of growing a business, branch or territory
- Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to create momentum in a developing market
- Strong commercial judgement — able to balance growth, utilisation, CAPEX and customer delivery
- Hands-on, visible leader who is comfortable working closely with customers and teams
- Experience building capability from a new base and scaling operations sustainably
- Comfortable operating in a matrix environment, working with central support functions while retaining local ownership
- Strong communicator, able to influence and co-ordinate across multiple stakeholders
- Honest, trustworthy and engaging, with a collaborative and low-ego approach
- Highly organised, resilient and adaptable
- Good level of IT literacy
- Full EU driving licence
What We Can Offer You:
- Competitive salary
- Competitive annual bonus scheme
- Company Car
- Salary sacrifice pension
- 25 days holiday FTE, plus bank holidays (and your birthday off!!)
- Additional holiday purchase scheme
- Life Assurance cover 3x salary
- Share save scheme
- Eye care vouchers
- Recommend a friend scheme
- Learning & Development – commitment to upskilling and developing our people, structured in house training available alongside external training where required
- Cycle to work scheme
- Long service recognition
- My Vp discounts – a variety of discounts and rewards on thousands of well-known brands
- Discounts on HP products
- EE mobile contract discount offers
- Gym discounts
- Free annual flu vaccination (to the value of €35)
- Microsoft Office discount
A Little Bit About Us:
MEP Hire is a leading provider of mechanical and electrical press fittings and low-level access products in the UK. We cater to the construction, fit-out, mechanical, and electrical markets, delivering reliable solutions that meet the specific needs of our customers.
With a strong commitment to excellence, MEP Hire has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. Our focus on mechanical and electrical press fittings ensures that we deliver high-quality products that meet the rigorous standards of the construction and installation processes.
We understand the unique requirements of the construction, fit-out, mechanical, and electrical sectors. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of low-level access products, designed to facilitate safe and efficient work at height.
At MEP Hire, we prioritise customer satisfaction. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing exceptional service and support, ensuring that our clients receive the right products and solutions for their projects. We value long-term partnerships and strive to exceed expectations in every interaction.
Joining MEP Hire means becoming part of a company that values excellence, innovation, and customer-centricity. We offer a dynamic work environment where your skills and expertise will be recognised and celebrated. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the construction, fit-out, mechanical, and electrical markets, delivering reliable and efficient solutions to our valued customers.
Vp plc is an equal opportunities employer. We believe passionately that employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We make recruiting decisions based on your experience and skills.
