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- Tasks: Lead daily operations and enhance efficiency at the UK Dementia Research Institute.
- Company: Join a leading research institute dedicated to tackling dementia and neurodegenerative disorders.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in dementia research while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational management and strategic planning is essential.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and positive change.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The interview process consists of an online discussion followed by an in-person interview for shortlisted candidates.
In-person interview: Monday 24 November 2025
Closing date for applications: Monday 10 November 2025
UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is a globally leading multidisciplinary research institute with a community of over 900 researchers investigating the spectrum of neurodegenerative disorders causing dementia, driving a step change in our understanding of neurodegeneration, and accelerating the discovery, development and delivery of interventions that will help diagnose, treat, and ultimately prevent dementia.
About You
We are seeking a proactive and experienced Head of Business Operations to lead the day-to-day management and operational delivery of UK DRI’s business functions.
This pivotal role ensures high-quality, efficient, and compliant operations, supporting our national research programme and strategic objectives.
You will oversee operational IT systems, grants and membership management, and reporting obligations, while ensuring alignment with governance requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational leadership: Lead the Business Operations team, managing daily activities and implementing robust processes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and delivery.
- Strategic planning: Work with senior leadership to develop and analyse KPIs and operational metrics, ensuring alignment with UK DRI’s 2030 Impact Indicators.
- Governance & reporting: Ensure adherence to legal, statutory, and data security requirements; manage risk registers and business continuity plans.
- Stakeholder management: Act as the primary contact for external partners, vendors, and stakeholders, building strong relationships.
- Team Development: Line manage, mentor, and support the Business Operations team, promoting a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
We are looking for a dynamic professional with:
- A degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
- Significant operational management experience, ideally within a university, healthcare, or research environment.
- Proven expertise in strategic planning, process optimisation, budget management, and CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce).
- Experience in risk management, business continuity planning, and reporting against business targets and managing business reporting systems.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels, including board and external partners.
- Demonstrated line management experience, with a track record of developing high-performing teams.
- Experience in managing vendor relationships and multi-project environments.
- Experience of research funding/grants management is desirable.
You will be passionate about making a positive impact on those affected by neurodegenerative diseases and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Why Join Us?
Be part of a ground breaking national research initiative and work with leading experts and stakeholders in dementia research.
Benefits
Receive a competitive salary and benefits package including:
- 27 days holiday + UK Bank Holidays
- Up to 6 business closure days
- Option to purchase 5 days’ annual leave
- Contributory pension scheme
- Single medical cover
- Group Life Assurance 4x base salary
- Group Income Protection and Critical illness cover
- Season ticket loan
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme
- Comprehensive programme of voluntary benefits
The UK DRI currently operates hybrid working, with a minimum of three days onsite.
About the UK DRI
Today, over 1M people in the UK are living with dementia and related neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and motor neuron disease (MND). The impact of these incurable and progressive conditions on individuals and families is devastating. Societal costs are staggering and growing as the population ages.
Due to major advances in our understanding of the biology of these disorders the field is at an inflection point with the next decade promising to deliver transformative breakthroughs in therapies and a new era of predictive, preventative, and precision medicine. The UK is well placed to play a leading role in this revolution due to its strengths in science required for discovery and delivery, led by the UK DRI working with our world-class university-based centres. To find out more about the UK\’s leading biomedical research institute dedicated to neurodegenerative diseases, visit UK Dementia Research Institute.
To apply
Please submit your CV and covering letter detailing why you wish to join the UK DRI and your experience for this role.
No agencies please.
You understand and agree that your information will be shared within the UK DRI People & Culture team and/or any team members who will be part of the hiring process.
UK DRI is committed to equal opportunities.
The UK DRI embraces diversity, inclusion and accessibility for all of our people. We are committed to building a diverse organisation that represents the communities we serve and ensuring inclusion in everything we do. This means ensuring our recruitment processes are barrier-free and as inclusive as possible to everyone. We will make adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition.
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Head of Business Operations employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
Contact Detail:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Business Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the UK DRI inside out! Research their projects, values, and recent achievements. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Set up mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your experience in operational management and stakeholder engagement, as these are key for the Head of Business Operations role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees of UK DRI on LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the company culture and may even give you tips on how to stand out during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interviews, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your enthusiasm for the position and keep you top of mind.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Business Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Business Operations role. Highlight your operational management experience and any relevant skills that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits with our mission at UK DRI!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you're passionate about dementia research and how your experience can contribute to our goals. Be genuine and let us know what excites you about joining the UK DRI team.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, make sure to highlight your line management experience and any successful projects you've led. We love seeing examples of how you've developed high-performing teams in the past!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised during the hiring process.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the UK Dementia Research Institute's mission and recent projects. Understanding their work will help you connect your experience in operational management to their goals, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've led teams and improved processes in previous roles. Highlight your experience in managing operational IT systems and stakeholder relationships, as these are crucial for the Head of Business Operations position.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle real-life scenarios related to governance, risk management, and team development. Think through potential challenges they might face and how your strategic planning skills can help navigate those situations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about their current operational challenges or how they measure success against their 2030 Impact Indicators. This shows your proactive nature and genuine interest in contributing to their objectives.
