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- Tasks: Lead a large-scale laboratory operation and manage a team of 190 employees.
- Company: Join a world-leading life sciences organisation in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Strong benefits package, flexible culture, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a no-micromanagement environment focused on trust and empowerment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical operations that change lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in laboratory services or regulated environments is essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ 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 Manager Needed in Cambridge employer: Avantor
Contact Detail:
Avantor Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Site Manager Needed 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 Manager 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 interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values around compliance and operational excellence, so you can showcase how your experience aligns with their mission during the chat.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams, managed risks, and driven performance in previous roles. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can make a real impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Site Manager Needed 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 relevant leadership roles. 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 your operational excellence and stakeholder management skills that match what we're looking for.
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 seeing candidates who are proactive about maintaining high standards!
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, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
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 your commitment to operational excellence.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about times when you coached or mentored others, and be ready to discuss how you can build strong management capability in this new role. They’ll want to see your people leadership skills in action!
✨Understand Stakeholder Management
Familiarise yourself with the importance of stakeholder relationships. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve managed customer expectations and collaborated with external service partners. Highlighting your experience in maintaining strong relationships will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Think about specific instances where you’ve driven continuous improvement in your previous roles. Be ready to talk about how you’ve maintained financial oversight and performance reporting. Showing a proactive approach to operational risk management will resonate well with the interviewers.