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- Tasks: Lead BBSRC's operations, driving strategic change and collaboration across research and innovation.
- Company: Join UKRI, the UK's largest public funder of research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in bioscience and innovation while shaping the future.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in complex operations and strategic change management.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
SALARY: £94,931-£117,800 Per annum
HOURS: Full Time or Part Time (Minimum 0.8 FTE)
CONTRACT END DATE: 1st February 2028
LOCATION: Swindon with travel to other locations
Closing Date: 15th March 23:55
Shortlisting: W/C 6th April
Interviews W/C 27th April
ABOUT UKRI
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is the UK’s largest public funder of research and innovation. We invest more than £8 billion annually to advance our understanding of society and the world around us and deliver benefits for society, the economy and the environment.
Purpose of the role
The Chief Operating Officer for BBSRC is a significant role within our Executive Leadership Team, aligned to the UKRI strategy, enabling BBSRC to continue its influential roles in research and innovation within UKRI and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership
- BBSRC strategically funded Institutes
- Planning and Programme support
- Finance and Commercial
- Human Resources
- Governance, Assurance, Risk, Information (GARI) and Legal
- Information Technology, Facilities, Administration
- Safety, Health and Environment
- Projects, ad-hoc activities
About you
You will demonstrate significant experience of managing operations of comparable scale and complexity to BBSRC. In addition, you will be qualified to degree level in a business discipline or demonstrate significant equivalent experience.
Essential Criteria
- Significant experience of managing operations of comparable scale and complexity to BBSRC, all while working at pace.
- Significant experience of leading and driving organisational change and managing operations, drawing on and integrating the support of professional functions, including HR, Finance and Project Management.
- Proven track record of working with boards at a senior level and with diverse internal and external stakeholders in Research Organisations, Business and Government departments.
- A motivational and inspirational leader with experience of successfully leading and developing high performing teams to deliver high-quality outcomes.
- Ability to operate successfully at strategic level, working collaboratively with partner organisations.
- Effective communication, interpersonal, relationship building, collaboration, customer relations and influencing skills.
- Demonstrate an understanding of governance and risk management principles, and of handling complex HR issues.
Application Guidance
As part of your application, you will need to submit:
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A Supporting Statement – covering the essential criteria
Benefits
- An outstanding defined benefit pension scheme
- 30 days’ annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent)
- Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities
- Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice
- Flexible working options
Chief Operating Officer in New Town employer: BBSRC
Contact Detail:
BBSRC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer in New Town
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings 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 and how they align with yours. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your answers. Focus on articulating your experience and how it relates to the Chief Operating Officer role at BBSRC.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and keep you top of mind. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the position. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer in New Town
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before diving into your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for, and it’ll help you tailor your CV and supporting statement to match our needs.
Craft a Stellar Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the essential criteria. This will make it easier for us to see why you’re the perfect fit.
Keep It Concise: We love a good read, but keep your CV and supporting statement to 2-3 pages each. Be clear and concise, focusing on the most relevant experiences that showcase your skills and achievements.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our careers site. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t wait too long; we might close the vacancy early!
How to prepare for a job interview at BBSRC
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into UKRI and BBSRC's mission, values, and recent projects. Understanding their strategic goals will help you align your experience with what they’re looking for in a Chief Operating Officer.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how you've successfully led teams through change. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to inspire and empower others, especially in complex environments.
✨Master the STAR Method
When answering competency questions, structure your responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This will help you clearly articulate your experiences and demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values, especially regarding diversity and inclusion.