At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the NGI Programme Board to oversee major infrastructure projects and drive impactful change.
- Company: The John Innes Centre, a leading research institute in plant science and genetics.
- Benefits: Honorarium of £5,000 per year plus expenses; flexible remote work options.
- Other info: Commitment of 8-12 days per year with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in world-class research and inspire future scientists.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, leadership, and managing major change programmes essential.
Main Purpose of the Job
Independent non-executive Member of the Next Generation Infrastructure (NGI) Programme Board who has experience of delivering major change programmes. The NGI Board reports to JIC Governing Council.
Key Relationships
The John Innes Centre’s Governing Council is responsible for oversight of the management and administration of JIC’s income and expenditure, assets and liabilities. The NGI Programme Board is accountable to JIC Governing Council and principal stakeholders, including BBSRC/UKRI, for the successful delivery of the objectives outlined in the Outline Business Case.
Person Profile
- Education & Qualifications
- Demonstrable experience in governance, leadership and/or senior management (Essential)
- Suitable qualifications from one of the professions/disciplines normally associated with a major infrastructure programme of change (Essential)
- Specialist Knowledge & Skills
- Knowledge and experience of best practice with respect to procurement, management of risks, governance and assurance (Essential)
- Ability to think strategically and independently (Essential)
- Understanding of charity law and regulatory requirements (Desirable)
- Experience of enabling business change involving new ways of working to improve efficiencies and outcomes and realisation of benefits (Essential)
- Experience of major programme delivery where phased construction of infrastructure is a large component (Essential)
- Experience of change with similar facilities from within the higher education sector (Desirable)
- Previous involvement of working within the science sector (Desirable)
- Experience of finance and project controls (Desirable)
- Interpersonal & Communication Skills
- Excellent communication and interpretation skills (Essential)
- Commitment to our mission and values (Essential)
- Additional Requirements
- Attention to detail (Essential)
- Promotes equality and values diversity (Essential)
- Appreciation of working in and around fully operational sites whilst keeping business as usual working with minimum disruption where possible (Desirable)
Who We Are
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.
The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852), limited by guarantee (registered in England No. 511709).
Department Directorate
The Next Generation Infrastructure is an ambitious programme to create world-class facilities for the John Innes Centre (JIC) and The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) at the heart of the Norwich Research Park. This supports the two research institutes to further their Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet vision by enabling cutting edge scientific discoveries and fostering new collaborations to tackle globally significant challenges.
The most significant piece of construction in the NGI programme is the new laboratory and support infrastructure that will house all JIC and TSL researchers under one roof in a flexible, modern workplace that enables the cutting-edge research of the institutes. This new building will engage with its surroundings, be outward looking and provide training, teaching and learning spaces to support the research. This workplace will provide a diverse set of facilities that will attract collaborators, staff, and visitors to ensure the building acts as a hub for plant and microbial science in the UK.
The objectives of the investment are to:
- Create a world-leading hub with state-of-the-art facilities which will harness the collaborative environment of the Norwich Research Park and create a unique asset for UK science in line with the UK Plant Science Research Strategy.
- Connect a critical mass of research and technical expertise under one roof.
- Improve connectivity across the NRP.
- Create an inspiring work environment.
- The hub will attract the world’s best scientists and new businesses to Norwich, fostering interactions and catalysing new initiatives to ensure the UK remains a partner of choice for collaboration.
- Inspire the next generation of researchers, innovators and technical experts.
- Deliver a Net Zero Carbon solution based on the latest low carbon design technology.
The ideal post holder
The NGI Programme Board currently comprises senior executives of JIC (John Innes Centre), TSL (The Sainsbury Laboratory) and EI (Earlham Institute), together with an independent non-executive member of JIC Governing Council as Chair. Additionally, a senior representative of BBSRC/UKRI as the principal funder is also a member of the NGI Programme Board.
The appointed member is expected to:
- Help ensure the NGI Programme Board operates efficiently, effectively, and in line with public and charitable responsibilities.
- Contribute constructively to discussions and share relevant expertise as needed.
- Comply with all legislation and ensure alignment with JIC Governing Council rules and guidance.
- Apply skills and experience to decision-making and actively participate in Board responsibilities.
- Represent JIC to key stakeholders.
Additional information
The postholder will commit approximately 8 - 12 days per year including attending Programme Board meetings every other month on site in Norwich. The term of the appointment is for a minimum of three years, with the possibility of serving a second term subject to approval. The role can be carried out remotely; however, it would be desirable where possible to attend in-person Programme Board meetings on location in Norwich. These are scheduled on a two-monthly basis.
Remuneration
Honorarium of £5,000 per annum. Expenses will be paid.
Application information
If you believe you can make a significant contribution to the governance and development of one of the world’s most renowned research institutes and can give the necessary commitment, please submit your CV and a personal statement via our website by 1 February 2026. We reserve the right to close the advert prior to the closing date stated should we receive a high volume of applications. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Non-Executive NGI Programme Board Member in Norwich employer: The John Innes Centre
The John Innes Centre is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in plant and microbial genetics within a diverse and inclusive environment. Located at the Norwich Research Park, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that fosters innovation and professional growth, supported by prestigious awards recognising our commitment to equality and diversity. With a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge facilities, the Centre not only aims to attract top talent but also inspires the next generation of researchers and innovators.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Non-Executive NGI Programme Board Member in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your experience in governance and change management, as these are key for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows your commitment to joining our mission at the John Innes Centre. Get your CV and personal statement ready and submit them early!
We think you need these skills to ace Non-Executive NGI Programme Board Member in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the role of a Non-Executive NGI Programme Board Member. Highlight your governance, leadership, and change management experience to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Personal Statement:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you an ideal candidate. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to our mission.
Showcase Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to include any experience you have in major infrastructure programmes or within the science sector. We want to see how your past roles have prepared you for this exciting opportunity!
Apply Early!:We recommend submitting your application as soon as possible. With a closing date of 1 February 2026, we might close the advert early if we get a lot of applications. Don’t miss out—apply through our website today!
How to prepare for a job interview at The John Innes Centre
✨Know Your Governance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of governance and leadership principles. Since this role involves oversight and accountability, being able to discuss best practices in these areas will show that you're the right fit for the NGI Programme Board.
✨Showcase Your Change Management Experience
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully delivered major change programmes in the past. Highlight your strategic thinking and ability to manage risks, as these are crucial for the role. Be ready to discuss how you’ve improved efficiencies and outcomes in previous projects.
✨Understand the Science Sector
Familiarise yourself with the current trends and challenges in the science sector, especially related to plant and microbial research. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your commitment to the mission of the John Innes Centre.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Use examples from your experience to illustrate your points, and don’t hesitate to ask questions to show your interest and engagement with the board's objectives.
