Manager R&D Labs (CNAP)

ConvaTec Inc.; Oxford; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Convatec Oxford laboratory is seeking a senior leader to manage operations, oversee CNAP R&D programmes, and ensure regulatory compliance across CSV, QMS, GMP, and related standards. The role leads a multidisciplinary team including technicians and scientists, driving capability, partnerships, and a culture of high performance.

We seek a Doctorate with deep expertise in complex lab systems, strong problem-solving ability, and a track record of delivering impactful results in MedTech/Pharma

Qualifications

• Doctorate or advanced degree in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Extensive technical proficiency in managing, optimizing, and troubleshooting advanced laboratory systems and high-throughput platforms.
• Robust regulatory knowledge within MedTech/Pharma and global regimes (FDA, ISO, GMP).
• Demonstrated leadership of scientific/technical teams in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the CNAP Oxford laboratory and administrative team, building capability and high performance.
• Oversee CNAP R&D programmes, method development, validation, and next-gen platform initiatives.
• Strengthen laboratory compliance and governance; own CSV and QMS integration to align with GMP and regulatory expectations.
• Drive transformation and expansion of the lab, including fit-out and equipment readiness for GMP operations.
• Manage OPEX and CAPEX budgets to invest in laboratory capability and infrastructure.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory knowledge

Problem solving

Strategic planning

Education

Doctorate in Biochemistry / Biomedical Engineering

Job description

Position Overview

This pivotal role provides management for the Convatec Oxford laboratory and team, which are the centre of excellence for Convatec Next Generation Adaptive Platform technologies that leverage nitric oxide for therapeutic applications. Overseeing the implementation, optimisation, and ongoing governance of technical processes, systems and equipment to ensure operational excellence and full regulatory compliance to enable effective completion of R&D projects at the site. The position leads a multidisciplinary team1 a technician, junior scientists, senior scientists, and a principal scientist1 setting clear prioritisation, building capability, and fostering a positive team and highperformance culture. A key requirement of the role is developing effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders. Success in this role requires strong leadership presence, deep technical expertise, and exceptional communication and influencing skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the CTEC Oxford laboratory and administrative team, building capability, driving high performance, and ensuring alignment with Convatec scientific and operational priorities.
• Deliver CNAP R&D programmes, overseeing method development, validation, indicationxpansion studies, and next generation platform initiatives.
• Strengthen laboratory compliance and governance, owning CSV and QMS integration to ensure full alignment with GMP, GDC QMS, CSV, and regulatory expectations.
• Drive laboratory transformation and expansion, including facility transition to CTEC standards, lab fitout, equipment acquisition, and readiness for GMP and Researchutly operations.
• Manage OPEX and CAPEX budgets, ensuring efficient, compliant, and strategically aligned investment in laboratory capability and infrastructure.

Skills & Experience

• Applies strong scientific and technical judgement to guide complex programmes and shape the lab capability strategy.
• Translates strategic goals into clear plans with measurable outcomes.
• Drives high quality execution, ensuring timelines, compliance, and performance standards are consistently met.
• Holds self and team accountable for delivering impactful results.
• Champions new ideas and technologies that enhance laboratory capability and efficiency.
• Uses structured problem solving to optimise processes and elevate scientific output.
• Demonstrates strong learning agility and curiosity.
• Builds and leads a highperforming, multidisciplinary team and drives high-performing team principles.
• Fosters collaboration and promotes a culture of growth, authenticity and inclusion.
• Coaches, recruits and develops people to meet both their career goals and the organisation goal.
• Works effectively across R&D, Quality, Regulatory, ITQA, and external partners.
• Communicates with clarity and influence to ensure alignment and informed decisionking.
• Demonstrates deep listening skills.
• Demonstrates strong understanding of GMP, QMS, CSV, and regulatory expectations.
• Leads qualityriven behaviours and ensures robust documentation and audit readiness.
• Acts with transparency, integrity, accountability, and sound judgement.
• Conveys an appropriate sense of urgency in delivering on the priorities for the CNAP programme and gets things done.
• Roleoes Convatec values, leadership behaviours and commitment to doing what right.

Qualifications/Education

• Doctorate (or advanced degree) in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline, with deep expertise in complex laboratory systems and scientific operations.
• Extensive technical proficiency in managing, optimizing, and troubleshooting advanced laboratory equipment, analytical platforms, and high throughput systems.
• Robust regulatory knowledge within MedTech and/or Pharma, with proven ability to navigate global regulatory frameworks (e.g., FDA, ISO, GMP) and maintain compliance.
• Demonstrated team leadership, including managing, and developing high performing scientific or technical teams in fast paced, innovationriven environments.
• Exceptional problem solving capabilities, with a track record of implementing innovative, datariven solutions that improve system performance and operational efficiency.

Team: 8 direct reports

Working Conditions: Full-time on-site role (office plus laboratory environment with exposure to chemicals, reagents and solvents, electronic equipment, some manual handling).

About Convatec Pioneering trusted medical solutions to improve the lives we touch: Convatec is a global medical products and technologies company, focused on solutions for the management of chronic conditions, with leading positions in Advanced Wound Care, Ostomy Care, Continence Care, and Infusion Care. With over 10,000 colleagues, we provide products and services in around 90 countries, united by a promise to be forever caring. Our solutions provide a range of benefits, from infection prevention, treatment for hard to heal wounds, atangerous skin and ulcerated tissue to supporting debilitating conditions, improved patient outcomes and reduced care costs. Convatec's revenues in 2025 were over $2 billion. The company is a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index (LSE:CTEC). To learn more please visit: http://www.convatecgroup.com. Convatec is a global medical products and technologies company focused on solutions for the management of chronic conditions, with leading market positions in advanced wound care, ostomy care, continence & critical care, and infusion care. Our products provide a range of clinical and economic benefits including infection prevention, protection of at-risk skin, improved patient outcomes and reduced total cost of care. If you would like to know how we intend to use your data following your application please refer to our full data privacy policy on the following link: https://www.convatecgroup.com/privacy-policy/