At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing team in producing top-quality biological products.
- Company: Dynamic biotechnology facility focused on innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a vibrant team culture.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in life sciences while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in science and proven leadership experience in biotechnology.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 € per year.
Are you an experienced leader ready to take the helm of a high-impact life sciences manufacturing site? We’re looking for a strategic and hands‑on Chief Scientist to lead operations at a specialist biotechnology facility. In this key leadership role, you’ll oversee production, drive performance, and champion continuous improvement, ensuring products are delivered on time and to the highest standards of quality. If you thrive in a fast‑paced environment and have a passion for developing teams and operational excellence, this could be your next move.
About the Role
As Chief Scientist, you’ll provide strategic and operational leadership across the site, ensuring compliance, safety, and efficiency in all areas. You’ll work closely with manufacturing, R&D, and senior stakeholders to deliver high‑quality biological products, meet KPIs, and foster a positive, high‑performing team culture. This is a role for someone who’s comfortable balancing big‑picture planning with day‑to‑day execution.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Leading, developing and motivating a high‑performing manufacturing team
- Ensuring timely, high‑quality production and delivery of biological products
- Driving site performance in line with budget and operational targets
- Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence
- Managing site health and safety and regulatory compliance (e.g. COSHH, SAPO)
- Reporting on KPIs and performance metrics
- Maintaining and enhancing site facilities and infrastructure
- Supporting change management and business transformation initiatives
What We’re Looking For
- A degree or postgraduate qualification in a scientific discipline
- Proven experience in a senior leadership role in a life sciences or biotechnology environment
- Strong Virology background and understanding
- Strong understanding of antigen production, downstream processing, and troubleshooting
- Demonstrated experience managing operational functions and cross‑functional teams
- Familiarity with site health and safety standards (IOSH or similar desirable)
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels
- Proven leadership in delivering results through people, process, and performance improvement
Salary & Location
Salary: £70,000 – £85,000 (depending on experience)
Location: On‑site, Huntingdon
Regrettably, this company is unable to offer (or extend) sponsorship and only those with existing Right to Work in the UK will be considered.
Virology Operations Manager in Huntingdon employer: Cranleigh Scientific Ltd
Join a leading biotechnology facility in Huntingdon, where we prioritise innovation and excellence in life sciences manufacturing. As an employer, we offer a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and continuous improvement, alongside competitive salaries and opportunities for professional growth. Our commitment to employee development ensures that you will thrive in your role as Chief Scientist, making a meaningful impact in the field of virology and antigen production.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Virology Operations Manager in Huntingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the life sciences field, especially those who work in virology or biotechnology. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to their success in producing high-quality biological products.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've developed teams and driven performance improvements. This will help you stand out as a strategic thinker who can balance big-picture planning with day-to-day execution.
✨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 take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Virology Operations Manager in Huntingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Chief Scientist role. Highlight your leadership experience in life sciences and any relevant virology background to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about operational excellence and how you can lead our team to success. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on quantifiable achievements. Did you improve production efficiency or lead a successful project? Numbers speak volumes, so don’t shy away from sharing them!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh Scientific Ltd
✨Know Your Virology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your virology knowledge before the interview. Be prepared to discuss recent advancements in the field, as well as your own experiences with antigen production and troubleshooting. This will show that you're not just a leader but also a subject matter expert.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Think about how you’ve developed and motivated teams in the past. Prepare specific examples of how you've fostered a high-performing culture and driven operational excellence. This will help demonstrate your ability to lead effectively in a fast-paced environment.
✨Understand the Company’s Goals
Research the company’s mission and values, and be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs. Highlight how you can contribute to their goals, especially in terms of compliance, safety, and efficiency in operations.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage change. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on how you’ve successfully navigated challenges in previous roles.
