Associate Director of Operations

Overview

We are looking to appoint an Associate Director of Operations to oversee site operations at several UK-based R&D centres. This role, located mainly in Oxford, will enhance operational excellence, service provision, and working methods within a dynamic research organisation. You will act as a key operational leader across three UK sites, working closely with scientific teams, senior stakeholders, and global divisions to ensure seamless, compliant, and science-focused operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and nurture a multidisciplinary operations team, offering clear direction, support, and strategic oversight for daily operations and improvement projects.
• Manage laboratory operations, facilities, health and safety protocols, site services, office management, and supplier partnerships across multiple UK sites.
• Collaborate with senior stakeholders and scientific leaders as a reliable advisor to facilitate cross-functional teamwork.
• Enhance operational governance, develop processes, and embed best practices to sustain a safe, efficient, and scalable R&D setting.
• Champion continuous improvement efforts to boost service delivery and operational efficiency.
• Direct strategic vendor relationships, outsourced services, and monitor performance indicators to guarantee high-quality outcomes.
• Promote alignment across sites by ensuring consistent operational standards and effective working practices.
• Identify risks, troubleshoot operational issues, and maintain business continuity throughout the organisation.

Candidate Profile

• Substantial experience leading operations, site or lab functions, or facilities management within professional R&D or life sciences contexts.
• Proven capability in managing teams and stakeholders within complex, multi-location organisations.
• Expertise in vendor management, outsourcing, and supplier relationship oversight.
• Skill in developing robust governance frameworks and streamlined operational processes.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills to collaborate effectively with scientists, senior executives, and external partners.
• A hands-on, collaborative leadership approach balancing strategic planning with practical delivery.
• Experience working in environments characterized by growth, transformation, or organisational change.