I'm considering looking for a job in Europe, in the UK in particular. I have over 30 years of management experience in all areas of an organization — sales, marketing, manufacturing, finance, etc. — and owned a manufacturing company that did business in the UK. What's required of a US citizen to work there and how can I learn about job openings?
The biggest hurdle that most job seekers face when searching for employment in a foreign country is obtaining a work visa or permit. You can't simply sign up for one. In most instances, unless you have a relative with citizenship in the UK, you'll need to be sponsored by an employer to legally work there. This process can be undertaken only by a UK employer once an offer of employment has been made and you've accepted it. It's a fairly large financial and administrative commitment on the part of the employer, so don't think it will be a snap to make this happen.
You may be able to get an investor's visa if you invest your money in the UK to start a new business. For more information about the different kinds of visas and requirements, check out http://www.workpermit.com. We advise you contact an attorney with expertise in this area to make sure there are no surprises if you go forward with your plans.
Your background shows that you have what it takes to make this kind of a jump. Since you've already done business in the UK, start by connecting with your former clients or customers. Your chances to find the right job will increase if you use your contacts, especially when making this kind of geographical leap.
If you didn't maintain contacts from your previous work in the UK, the next best bet would be to target American companies with offices in the UK. Start working in the US and make the transition overseas as soon as possible.