Asset Manager

The Next Generation Infrastructure (NGI) Programme is a construction project on the Norwich Research Park (NRP). It will provide new accommodation for The John Innes Centre (JIC) and The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) culminating in a new science building for both institutes. A key element of the project will be understanding and managing the equipment that will be provided or relocated into the new building. NGI Programme Office are seeking an Asset Manager to work with JIC Lab Managers and the Facilities Team to lead a review of the system, maintain a detailed and accurate record of scientific equipment and lead the development and implementation of management strategies covering all stages of the equipment life cycle, from purchase to disposal. The role will be vital to the successful migration of the JIC into the new building and will provide accurate reports to inform funding bids for equipment where required, and planning of lab layouts.

Key Relationships

Within JIC, your key relationships will be with NGI Science Liaison manager and the JIC Lab Managers, also working with the Facilities Business Services Manager.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Current Asset Database Management
  • Responsible for leading the review and maintenance of data held in the existing bespoke asset management system, identifying and implementing process improvements.
  • Ensure the accuracy of current asset records including location, specification, warranty information and service records for all current scientific equipment.
  • Manage the process of updating erroneous information where required. Engage with stakeholders to achieve this with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
  • Responsible for the development, establishing and monitoring of data entry protocols to ensure ongoing accurate input for new equipment.
  • Responsible for training staff involved in data entry, ensuring adherence to new processes.
  • Lead engagement with stakeholders and suppliers of scientific equipment to develop the requirements of a complete life-cycle scientific asset management system.
  • Collaborating with Facilities to lead the integration of asset records within a new CAFM and maintenance planning system, ensuring consistency, auditability and lifecycle traceability.
• Equipment Life Cycle (40%)
  • Take sole responsibility for tracking and managing scientific equipment assets from procurement through deployment, maintenance and end of life, including sustainability considerations at all stages.
  • Lead on the coordination and monitoring of inventory audits and help identify missing, damaged or obsolete equipment.
  • Understand, manage and maintain the budget associated with supplier and third-party maintenance contracts.
  • Lead on writing business cases for investment in new systems or equipment, working with Lab managers to agree technical requirements and specifications.
• Process Review and Operational Improvement (30%)
  • Lead the evaluation of current equipment management workflows and business processes, identify and implement opportunities for improvement.
  • Lead collaboration with Lab Managers, Facilities and Finance teams to ensure processes are aligned and efficient.
  • Contribute to the management of supplier and maintenance contracts, including monitoring performance, supporting tender reviews and ensuring value-for-money and service quality.
  • Support activities relating to statutory compliance, insurance inspections and assurance reporting, ensuring that records, certificates and remedial actions are accurately maintained within asset and CAFM systems.

Person Profile

• Education & Qualifications
  • A-level education or equivalent – Essential.
  • Good general level of education, 6 GCSEs or equivalent, including English and Maths – Essential.
  • Degree in a science discipline – Desirable.
• Specialist Knowledge & Skills
  • Proficient in using asset management databases or software – Essential.
  • Experience working with CAFM/maintenance management systems, including implementation and improvement – Desirable.
  • Experience of scientific or technical equipment commonly used in a research environment – Desirable.
  • Demonstrable understanding of maintenance techniques, inspection regimes and maintenance scheduling principles – Desirable.
  • Experience of working in a collaborative team environment – Essential.
  • Experience of working asset management or similar role – Essential.
  • Experience of working in an academic/research/scientific environment – Essential.
  • Experience of contract management or supplier performance monitoring in relation to equipment or maintenance services – Desirable.
  • Experience of developing or improving business processes and operational workflows – Desirable.
• Interpersonal & Communication Skills
  • Ability to work on own initiative and to work effectively as part of a team, requiring flexibility, versatility, and adaptability – Essential.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills – Essential.
  • Demonstrable ability to influence decision makers at all levels – Essential.
  • Good people and interaction skills, with the ability to work with individuals at all levels – Essential.
  • Detail–oriented, highly organised, and efficient.
  • Excellent time management, with the ability to prioritise workloads effectively – Essential.
  • Self-motivated and proactive – Essential.
  • Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well as part of a team – Essential.
• Additional Requirements
  • Promotes equality and values diversity – Essential.
  • Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work – Essential.
  • Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute – Essential.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate – Essential.
  • Willingness to occasionally undertake out of hours working – Essential.
  • Attention to detail – Essential.
  • Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required – Essential.

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, carrying out fundamental and strategic research, to train scientists and making our findings available to society. Our research makes use of a wide range of disciplines in the biological and chemical sciences including cell biology, biochemistry, chemistry, genetics and molecular biology. We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive working environment for all. We have a diverse and multicultural scientific community and thrive on our European and international links, appointing staff from across the world. We are proud to hold a prestigious Athena SWAN Gold award, recognising the impact of our work in promoting gender equality in science. We are also a proud member of the Stonewall Diversity Champion's programme, a founding signatory of the Technician Commitment and, as a Disability Confident employer, guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.