Director of Operations in Norwich

Director of Operations in Norwich

Norwich Full-Time 60000 - 80000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead operations and ensure smooth running of scientific services at Quadram Institute.
  • Company: Join a pioneering research institute focused on health and nutrition.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on health by decoding food and microbe interactions.
  • Qualifications: Experience in facilities management and leadership in a scientific setting.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.

Salary: A competitive remuneration and benefits package is available commensurate with the successful applicant’s experience.

Contract Length: This is a full-time permanent position.

We’re looking for a Director of Operations to join our Directorate Department. Quadram Institute Bioscience was established with a clear vision — to understand how food and microbes interact to promote health and prevent disease. Today, Quadram Institute Bioscience is entering a new and exciting phase of growth. Our focus is now defined through our impact-driven framework, Healthy Living by Design, which aims to promote lifelong health by decoding the complex relationships between food, nutrition, microbes, microbiomes, and human biology — and translating this into practical, innovative solutions in partnership with clinicians, industry, and policy leaders.

Our research responds directly to the UK’s most pressing challenges:

  • Rising rates of obesity and diet-related disease
  • Increasing pressures on food systems from climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and global supply-chain fragility

Quadram Institute Bioscience operates as part of the broader Quadram Institute, a partnership that manages the building, the clinical research facility and the biorepository. In close collaboration with University of East Anglia, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), we bring together scientists and clinicians within a state-of-the-art facility on the Norwich Research Park. This co-location enables integration of fundamental research, clinical translation, and innovation.

This is a really exciting time to join the institute following the recent appointment of Professor Daniel Figeys as Director. Reporting to the Director, the Director of Operations is responsible for the design, operation and delivery of Quadram Institute Bioscience/Quadram Institute operations and scientific services. The post holder will work closely with the Director and the Quadram Institute Bioscience/Quadram Institute Management Boards to deliver the operational strategy which is critical to the success of the Institute.

The Director of Operations is a key member of the leadership team and will lead a range of management activities supporting the delivery of our scientific vision. Leading, coordinating and ensuring efficient delivery of the operational activities are key requirements of this role. The post holder will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the Institute. With experience in Facilities Management, Lab Management, and Health and Safety, they will be used to operating in a complex environment with multiple stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge and understanding of scientific research and senior leadership experience in a relevant setting. The post holder will have demonstrable ability to manage, support and motivate teams ensuring the highest levels of performance are achieved.

This role is based in Norwich, Norfolk. A competitive remuneration and benefits package is available commensurate with the successful applicant’s experience. This is a full-time post for an indefinite period.

This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from all sectors of society. The institute values of People-Centred Impact, Inclusive Excellence, Trusted Integrity, Collaborative Spirit and Agile Innovation are at the heart of all we do, and we expect all employees to share and display these values. To support our commitment, we have a range of family, faith and diversity friendly working arrangements to help all staff achieve excellence in their area of work.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.

The closing date for applications will be 4 June 2026. The Quadram Institute Bioscience is a registered charity (No. 1058499) and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Director of Operations in Norwich employer: QUADRAM INSTITUTE BIOSCIENCE

Quadram Institute Bioscience is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration at the forefront of health and nutrition research. Located in the vibrant Norwich Research Park, employees benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development. With a focus on impactful research and a supportive culture, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful advancements in public health while enjoying a competitive remuneration package.

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Contact Detail:

QUADRAM INSTITUTE BIOSCIENCE Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Operations in Norwich

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the Quadram Institute. Attend industry events or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the Quadram Institute’s recent projects and initiatives. Show that you’re genuinely interested in their mission of promoting health through food and microbes. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals.

Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your leadership experience and how you’ve successfully managed complex operations in the past. This will help you feel more confident when it’s your turn to shine.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on our careers page for any new opportunities that pop up. We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team!

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations in Norwich

Leadership Skills
Facilities Management
Lab Management
Health and Safety Compliance
Project Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operations, facilities management, and health and safety. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at Quadram Institute Bioscience!

Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Director of Operations, you'll be leading teams and managing projects. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership experience and how you've motivated teams to achieve high performance in complex environments.

Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your achievements and experiences are easy to read and understand. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Quadram Institute Bioscience!

How to prepare for a job interview at QUADRAM INSTITUTE BIOSCIENCE

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Quadram Institute's mission and how it aligns with your experience. Brush up on their research focus, especially around food, microbes, and health. This will show that you're genuinely interested and can contribute to their goals.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Director of Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in complex environments. Highlight your experience in Facilities Management and Lab Management to show you're ready for the challenges ahead.

Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle multiple stakeholders. Think of specific scenarios where you've had to negotiate or resolve conflicts, and be ready to discuss the outcomes. This will help illustrate your strategic thinking and operational expertise.

Emphasise Cultural Fit

Quadram Institute values equity, diversity, and collaboration. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work. Share experiences that reflect your commitment to inclusive excellence and how you've fostered a collaborative spirit in previous roles.