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- Tasks: Lead a large-scale laboratory operation and ensure service excellence.
- Company: Join a world-leading life sciences organisation in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Strong benefits package, flexible culture, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Empowering environment with a focus on trust and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical operations that change lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in laboratory services and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Site Director to lead a large-scale Laboratory Services operation for our client, a world-leading life sciences organisation based in Cambridge. The role has responsibility for the operation of approximately 190 employees, supporting multiple customer sites.
You will balance people leadership, operational excellence, and stakeholder management, ensuring services are delivered safely, compliantly, and in line with contractual obligations and Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Acting as the primary interface between the customer, external service partners, and internal VWR teams, the Site Director plays a critical role in maintaining strong relationships, managing risk, and driving sustainable operational performance.
- Maintain consistent service quality while driving operational excellence
- Build strong management capability through coaching, mentoring, and performance leadership
- Stakeholder & Customer Management
- Governance, Compliance & Risk
- Ensure full compliance with regulatory, GMP, and EHS requirements
- Maintain robust governance frameworks and proactively manage operational risk
- Lead audits, inspections, and issue resolution as required
Continuous Improvement & Financial Performance
- Maintain financial oversight, budget management, and performance reporting
Background in laboratory services, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, or other regulated environments.
Strong understanding of regulatory, GMP, and EHS requirements.
Commercial awareness with a focus on quality, compliance, and service excellence.
You will be embedded within one of the world's leading life sciences organisations, operating in a culture built on trust, flexibility, and empowerment - this is very much a no-micromanagement environment.
The role offers significant visibility, a strong benefits package, and genuine scope to make a lasting, measurable impact on a critical operation within a long-term customer partnership.
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success.
Site Director - Life Sciences in Cambridge employer: Avantor
Contact Detail:
Avantor Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Site Director - Life Sciences in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the life sciences field and let them know you're on the hunt for a Site Director role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values around compliance and operational excellence, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission. Show them you’re not just a fit on paper but also in spirit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience. Plus, it gives you a better chance of being noticed by the hiring team. Let’s get you that Site Director position!
We think you need these skills to ace Site Director - Life Sciences in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Site Director role. Highlight your experience in laboratory services and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
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 position. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational excellence and managed stakeholder relationships in the past.
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge: Since compliance is key in this role, be sure to mention your understanding of regulatory, GMP, and EHS requirements. We love candidates who can demonstrate their commitment to safety and quality!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avantor
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of laboratory services, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences. Understand the regulatory, GMP, and EHS requirements that are crucial for the role. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to operational excellence.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Site Director, people leadership is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully coached and mentored teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you’ve driven performance and built strong management capabilities—this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Master Stakeholder Management
Be ready to discuss your experience in managing relationships with stakeholders and customers. Highlight instances where you’ve navigated complex interactions or resolved conflicts. This will illustrate your ability to maintain strong partnerships and manage risks effectively.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Prepare to talk about how you've implemented continuous improvement initiatives in previous roles. Share specific examples of how you’ve maintained service quality while driving financial performance. This will show that you’re not just about compliance, but also about enhancing operational efficiency.