At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the National Biosecurity Centre Programme and oversee operations at Weybridge.
- Company: Join the Government Recruitment Service and make a national impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £125,000 and a permanent full-time position.
- Other info: Open to diverse backgrounds; proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme.
- Why this job: Shape the future of UK biosecurity and protect public health for decades.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading complex infrastructure programmes and operational delivery.
The predicted salary is between 125000 - 125000 £ per year.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is seeking an exceptional leader to become Senior Responsible Owner for the National Biosecurity Centre Programme and Director of Operations at Weybridge. This is a rare opportunity to lead one of the UK’s most significant science and infrastructure programmes, delivering a new National Biosecurity Centre that will strengthen the country’s ability to prevent, detect and respond to animal and zoonotic disease threats.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency’s Weybridge campus sits at the heart of the UK’s biosecurity capability. Its specialist laboratories and facilities support surveillance, research and outbreak response, helping to protect public and animal health, food security and trade. The Government is now making a major investment in the site through the National Biosecurity Centre Programme. The programme is estimated to cost £2.8 billion, with construction expected to begin in 2027 and the new facility planned to open in 2033.
As Senior Responsible Owner (SRO), you will lead the successful delivery of this complex programme, providing strategic leadership of the client-side function and oversight of delivery partners to ensure objectives for safety, quality, cost, schedule, performance and long-term value are met. Alongside delivery of the new infrastructure, you will lead preparations for commissioning and future operations, ensuring that the people, capabilities, systems and processes are in place to make the transition successfully.
The role extends beyond the construction programme. As SRO and Director of Operations for Weybridge, you will provide strategic oversight of the wider estate, maintaining business continuity and operational resilience while critical national biosecurity work continues throughout the transformation. You will help shape the long-term vision for Weybridge and lead significant organisational and operational change across multiple organisations. You will also build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders across government and beyond, including ministers, HM Treasury, the Cabinet Office, delivery partners and scientific leaders, securing confidence and support for the programme.
You will be an accomplished senior leader with proven experience of leading a major, complex infrastructure or construction programme, together with significant experience of operational delivery, operational readiness or transition into operations within a large-scale, complex environment. You will bring strong commercial acumen and significant experience of governance, risk and assurance, with the judgement and credibility to build confidence with senior stakeholders, including Ministers, government departments, delivery partners and other key stakeholders. You will also have a strong track record of leading transformational change, building organisational capability and creating high-performing, inclusive teams that can deliver successfully across organisational boundaries.
This is an opportunity to lead a programme with a significant and enduring national purpose: helping to create the scientific infrastructure the UK needs to protect animal and public health, food security and trade for decades to come. Applications are welcomed from candidates from a wide range of backgrounds who can demonstrate the leadership, infrastructure delivery, operational and transformation experience required for this complex role.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme.
Job Details
- Company: Government Recruitment Service
- Salary: £125,000 to £125,000 a year
- Hours: Full-time
- Location: London
- Job type: Permanent
- Posting date: 11 Nov 2026
- Closing date: 18 Nov 2026
About Disability Confident
Disability Confident is a government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term health conditions.
SRO and Director of Operations in London employer: Government Recruitment Service
The Ministry of Justice is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where finance professionals can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working options, and a robust pension scheme, the MoJ fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to influence key financial strategies that impact the nation. Located nationally, this role provides the unique advantage of engaging with diverse stakeholders across the UK, making it a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful contributions to public service.
Contact Details:
Government Recruitment Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SRO and Director of Operations in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Government Recruitment Service, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
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Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Government Recruitment Service and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace SRO and Director of Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Government Recruitment Service and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Recruitment Service
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Government Recruitment Service, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Government Recruitment Service.
