Senior Operations Manager

We are seeking a Senior Operations Manager, this role is responsible for ensuring the efficient running of the facility, maintaining high standards of animal welfare and husbandry, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulatory frameworks including the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA).

Basic Requirements:

• Significant experience in a managerial role within the laboratory animal science sector, ideally across multiple environments such as academia and industry
• Experience working with the husbandry and/or experimental use of both large and small laboratory animals
• Strong working knowledge of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA) and responsibilities of named persons
• Excellent understanding of laboratory animal husbandry and relevant regulatory standards including the Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes
• Demonstrable experience ensuring operational processes meet regulatory and compliance requirements
• Proven ability to lead, manage, and develop teams of technical staff
• Demonstrable experience in business planning, operational delivery, and service management
• Experience addressing complex operational issues and monitoring overall stakeholder or customer satisfaction
• Experience improving operational systems, processes, and best practices
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan, prioritise, and deliver under pressure and tight timelines
• Strategic thinking ability with capacity to understand the broader operational picture and manage complex challenges
• Proven problem-solving skills with a proactive and flexible approach
• Ability to build and maintain effective internal and external professional relationships
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High level of competence with IT systems, spreadsheets, and databases, including Microsoft Office 365
• Ability to empower teams to make decisions while maintaining overall accountability and oversight
• Member of the Institute of Animal Technology (IAT) or equivalent professional body, or Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, or equivalent relevant qualifications and experience
• Home Office Personal Licence (PIL) holder

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee operational systems, processes, and infrastructure within the Unit, identifying opportunities for improvement and advancement
• Contribute to long-term operational planning, project reporting, and implementation of control processes
• Work closely with the Director and colleagues to ensure operational, administrative, and compliance functions are delivered in line with regulatory requirements and scientific best practice
• Oversee cost-effective maintenance and servicing programmes for equipment and facility infrastructure, including management of tenders and service contracts
• Remain up to date with industry regulations, emerging technologies, and best practices, implementing improvements where appropriate
• Participate in day-to-day animal husbandry when required, support study meetings and experimental procedures, and contribute to out-of-hours cover
• Maintain and develop high standards of animal care, welfare, and husbandry within the Unit
• Actively participate in the institution’s Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB) and 3Rs Committee
• Demonstrate and share up-to-date expertise in animal technology and laboratory animal welfare
• Work collaboratively with other named persons including the Named Veterinary Surgeon (NVS), Named Training and Competence Officer (NTCO), and Named Information Officer (NIO) to promote and implement refinements in animal care, husbandry, and use
• Champion and promote a strong culture of care, acting as a role model for staff working with laboratory animals
• Plan and manage daily operations of the Unit through a team of area supervisors, ensuring efficient performance and service delivery
• Provide training, development, and ongoing support for technical staff, ensuring compliance with ASPA and Home Office expectations
• Manage staff performance through regular one-to-one meetings and contribute to annual performance reviews
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to uphold Unit values and promote a positive working environment
• Engage constructively with internal and external stakeholders to identify potential barriers, resolve operational issues, and escalate concerns when necessary
• Build strong professional relationships with research colleagues and respond proactively to feedback
• Identify opportunities to develop new techniques and approaches to support research activities