Operations Director

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced, senior Operations professional to join a new, class-leading innovation hub designed to bring real commercial benefit from collaboration between academia, business and service professionals. From its high specification, design-led facility, the organisation has ambitious plans for staff, tenants, associates and the wider innovation environment to deliver economic and societal benefit through a growing network of partners, suppliers and affiliates.

Publicly-owned, strongly commercial and community driven, our client will offer exemplary service levels to a diverse range of partners, start-ups and individuals to deliver a great place to work, a great place to connect and a great place to drive innovation. Reporting to the CEO / Chair, the successful candidate will provide leadership for the efficient and effective day-to-day management, alongside developing the 5-year strategic and financial business plan, ensuring key stakeholder buy-in and ensuring it is reviewed regularly and prioritised in-line with strategic priorities.

Working with businesses across the Health, Engineering, Environment and Data Sectors, the individual will be responsible for the delivery of an exemplary working environment, ensuring that all regulatory, legal, safety and accounting requirements are adhered to and that all physical assets are optimally managed. Responsibilities will include negotiation and agreement of service delivery plans, management of all onsite and occasional contractors, the delivery of a robust business continuity plan and the development of efficient building management systems to maintain the facility’s exciting position as a leader in this competitive market.

This is a senior and influential role and the right individual will have the opportunity to contribute to the overall long-term development of the wider business. Candidates, ideally qualified to degree level or a higher degree in a science/technical discipline, with demonstrable experience of running an R&D or innovation incubator facility either in a commercial or academic organisation, will possess exceptional people management skills, embrace innovation and be culturally aware with a track record of delivering detailed analysis and measured improvements throughout the facility.

Experienced in team leadership and the effective development of individuals through rigorous CPD and training plans, the incumbent will demonstrate drive, tenacity and excellent financial awareness coupled with exemplary communication & presentation skills. Listening, influencing and sound judgement will all be key competencies along with a high level of integrity, a desire to build strong relationships both internally and externally and a positive, enthusiastic outlook which will engage others.

Interested applicants should send a detailed CV and covering letter quoting current salary and reference 1902/web to 1902@transitionplus.co.uk. For a confidential discussion, please call Steve Bennett on Tel: +44 (0)1270 875710.