Account Director

Our client, CRG (Centre for Genomic Regulation), is an international biomedical research institute of excellence based in Barcelona, Spain, with over 400 scientists from 44 countries. It is recognized for its commitment to developing world-class, cutting-edge research in genomics.

The Role :

We are seeking an enthusiastic and resilient Administrative Director to join our dynamic team and provide leadership across a wide range of management and support functions. This role will be essential in ensuring smooth operations, creating a supportive environment for world-class research, and adapting to global challenges with a focus on digital transformation and long-term sustainability. You will work closely with the Director and senior management to translate the scientific vision into actionable operational strategies. As Administrative Director, you will play a key role in overseeing several essential functions, including Finance, Purchasing, IT, Human Resources, Legal, Facilities, and Health & Safety, among others. You will work within a multi-disciplinary, international environment, managing complex projects and ensuring that the institute’s operations align with its strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities :

• Strategic Leadership : Support the Director in developing the institute’s overall policy and strategy, ensuring alignment with scientific goals and operational objectives.
• Team Oversight : Lead and supervise the following departments: Finance, Purchasing and Grants Management, IT, SIT, People Department, Health and Safety, Legal, Facilities Management, Operations, and Corporate Projects (around 70 internal staff).
• Financial Management : Oversee budget preparation, management, and financial reporting, ensuring sound financial practices and safeguarding the institute's financial and physical assets.
• Human Resources : Lead recruitment, staff development, and team building initiatives.
• Regulatory Compliance : Ensure the institute’s operations comply with relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.
• Governance Liaison : Report to and collaborate with the Board of Trustees on matters of responsibility, policy formulation, and management follow-up.
• Legal Representation : Sign official documents on behalf of the institute, including contracts, agreements, and procurement-related matters.
• Process Improvement : Foster a culture of continuous improvement, implementing changes in management systems, processes, and KPIs to enhance operational efficiency.

Professional Experience and Skills :

Experience : Minimum of 5 years of extensive management experience, preferably within an international research or scientific organization.

Leadership : Proven track record in leading and managing multi-functional teams in multicultural environments.

Policy Formulation : Experience in preparing policies for governing bodies and ensuring their implementation and tracking.

Financial Acumen : Background in managing budgets and financial planning.

Project Management : Strong project management skills with the ability to oversee complex projects.

Regulatory Knowledge : In-depth knowledge of public sector regulations applicable to research foundations.

Educational Background :

Required : University degree in Business Administration, Law, or a related field. Desirable : MBA or similar qualifications. Alternatively: A university degree in Life Sciences or a related discipline with an MBA or equivalent experience in a similar role.

Languages : Fluent in spoken and written English. Good command of Spanish and Catalan or willingness to learn one of these languages upon incorporation.

At GHC, and with the people we collaborate with, we value diversity and equality as fundamental qualities of our culture and actively contribute to the development of talent for all individuals. That is why, throughout the entire process, we will uphold the principle of equal opportunities, not tolerating any form of discriminatory behavior. Through our inclusive and close-knit teams, we foster inclusion and share the same commitment to diversity.