Director of Operations

JR United Kingdom; Southampton; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotech company in the UK is seeking a Director of Operations to enhance efficiency and oversee daily operations. Responsibilities include managing contracts, supporting IT systems, and contributing to strategic planning. The ideal candidate holds a degree in life sciences or engineering with over 7 years of operational experience in biotech. This role offers a significant opportunity to impact the company's growth and operational success.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of operational experience in biotech companies.
• Proven track record in operational leadership.
• Hands-on leader passionate about building and optimizing systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational management and process improvements.
• Manage the lifecycle of contracts and vendor performance.
• Support IT system design and compliance.

Skills

Operational leadership

Process improvement

Communication

Organisational skills

Vendor management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in life sciences or engineering

Job description

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We are seeking a Director of Operations to play a key role in driving efficiency, integration, and resilience across the business. This position will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, improving processes, and ensuring the smooth execution of company initiatives. A central part of the role will involve managing contracts and suppliers-leading negotiations, onboarding new partners, and monitoring ongoing performance. Working closely with the Senior Leadership Team and function heads, you will have a direct impact on strategic planning and operational delivery.

In addition to core operational responsibilities, the role will involve supporting IT and digital infrastructure through the rollout of enterprise systems and ensuring data integrity and compliance. You will also work closely with internal teams and external partners on media, branding, and investor communications, while leading cross-company initiatives that drive the next stage of growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee operational management and drive process improvements across the organisation.
• Develop and implement tools and processes to support functions company-wide.
• Manage the full lifecycle of contracts, including drafting, negotiation, compliance, and renewal.
• Identify, onboard, and oversee vendors, ensuring performance is in line with budgets and integrated into project plans.
• Support the design, implementation, and compliance of corporate and R&D IT systems.
• Contribute to public relations, marketing, and investor-related materials.
• Support strategic planning, procurement, project management, and preparation for fundraising activities.

Experience/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience (ideally in life sciences or engineering).
• 7+ years of operational experience, preferably within Series A–C biotech companies.
• Proven track record in operational leadership, ideally within the life sciences sector.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• A hands-on leader with a passion for building, scaling, and optimising systems.