At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational delivery and maximise impact of telecoms research and innovation.
- Company: Join a leading institution at the forefront of telecoms research.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunity to influence major projects.
- Other info: Full-time role until September 2026 with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the telecoms sector while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience and strong strategic planning skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: West Cambridge - Hybrid Working
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Operations Director for a temporary assignment working with a leading institution conducting world‑leading research and development across all aspects of the telecoms ecosystem. This senior role will lead operational delivery to maximise the impact of research and innovation across the UK sector. The Operations Director will align strategy with execution, overseeing Marketing, Standards, Training and Commercialisation to ensure cohesive performance. The role also leads the IP pipeline, driving the identification, protection, and advancement of innovations toward commercial and societal benefit. You will be accountable for performance, risk management, governance, and financial sustainability, while delivering key strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, credible leader with strong strategic insight, commercial awareness, and the ability to build trusted relationships in complex environments. This is a full‑time position to start as soon as possible until 30th September 2026.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver the federation’s operational strategy in alignment with its mission
- Provide leadership and oversight of core functional areas through their respective directors
- Translate strategic objectives into clear operational plans and deliverables
- Lead performance monitoring, reporting, and risk management
- Engage with senior stakeholders across industry, government, and academia to deliver the federation’s mission
- Build and maintain strong relationships with national and international partners
- Ensure appropriate recruitment, development, and leadership of staff to support strategic delivery
- Oversee financial performance and ensure investment decisions support long‑term sustainability
- Lead the development and progression of the IP Pipeline
- Maintain regular communication with the Management and Governance Board to ensure alignment and accountability
Person Specification
- Significant senior leadership experience within academia, industry, or a major organisation
- Proven track record in strategic planning, financial management, and partnership development
- Experience leading complex programmes or high‑impact research initiatives
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage cross‑functional teams and external partners
- Advanced analytical and operational planning skills
- Strong technical systems awareness, including design and integration
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences
- Demonstrated ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders across sectors
- Excellent organisational and time‑management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities
- Knowledge of telecommunications innovation, technology transfer, and early‑stage R&D
- Experience managing intellectual property and assessing commercial value
- Familiarity with tools such as Python, MATLAB, or similar
- Experience working across industry, government, and academic environments
- Ability to manage complex portfolios and operate effectively in ambiguous environments
Next Steps: To review a full job description or to discuss the role in more detail please send a copy of your CV in MS Word.
Operations Director in Cambridge employer: Ann Pettengell
Join a leading institution in West Cambridge that is at the forefront of telecoms research and innovation, where you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the UK sector. Our hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while our collaborative culture fosters professional growth and development through engagement with senior stakeholders across academia, industry, and government. With a focus on strategic delivery and financial sustainability, this role offers a unique chance to lead high-impact initiatives in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the telecoms sector and let them know you're on the hunt for an Operations Director role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the institution's recent projects and innovations. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your strategic insight and how you can align their mission with operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After interviews or networking events, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for more opportunities and resources. We’ve got loads of tips and tools to help you ace your job search and land that dream role in operations management!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Director role. Highlight your strategic planning and leadership experience, especially in complex environments. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in operational strategy and stakeholder engagement that demonstrate your capabilities.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves engaging with various stakeholders, make sure to showcase your excellent written communication skills. Keep your application clear and concise, and don’t forget to proofread for any errors!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ann Pettengell
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the company’s mission and recent projects. Understand their operational strategy and how it aligns with the telecoms ecosystem. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your senior leadership experience and ability to manage cross-functional teams. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've successfully led complex programmes or high-impact research initiatives.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think of ways to demonstrate your ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders. Prepare anecdotes that showcase your experience in building trusted relationships across academia, industry, and government sectors.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Brush up on your technical knowledge, especially around telecommunications innovation and tools like Python or MATLAB. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve used these skills in previous roles to drive operational success and manage intellectual property.
