Director, Head of Vivarium Operations - Animal Sciences and Technology

Job Title: Director, Head of Vivarium Operations - Animal Sciences and Technology

Location: Cambridge, UK

Salary: Competitive

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Director, Head of Operations to manage and optimize the operations of our AST facilities. This pivotal role involves leading the efficient running of our facilities while ensuring compliance with health and safety, ASPA (Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986), and AAALAC requirements. As a subject matter expert and leader, you will be instrumental in participating in facility design and transformation projects, developing best practices, and implementing quality control measures based on the latest scientific literature and industry trends.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the overall operation and management of the AST facilities to ensure efficiency and compliance with all relevant regulations.

• Design and implement operational strategies and workflow improvements to enhance facility performance.

• Lead and participate in facility design and renovation projects, ensuring alignment with compliance standards and operational best practices.

• Develop and implement quality control measures and maintain up-to-date operational practices based on current literature and industry trends.

• Mentor junior staff in areas of vivarium construction, process optimization, and study-based data analysis.

• Serve as a subject matter expert in the implementation of health and safety, ASPA, and AAALAC requirements across all operational aspects.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations.

• Contribute to the strategic development of the AST facilities by providing insights and recommendations based on operational data and trends.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Biology, Operations Management, or a related field; advanced degrees preferred.

• Specialty certification or experience in lab animal sciences

• Significant  experience in animal facility operations management.

• Demonstrated experience in ASPA, AAALAC, and other relevant regulatory standards and compliance.

• Proven leadership skills with a track record of mentoring and developing junior staff.

• Strong project management skills, particularly in facility design and process optimization.

• Excellent analytical skills and experience in data-driven decision-making.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in drug discovery: pharmaceutical industry or CRO.

• Familiarity with quality control measures and operational best practices.

• Experience in leading cross-functional teams and projects.

So, what’s next?

We welcome your application no later than 12  April  2025

Where can I find out more?

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Are you ready to make a difference? Apply today and join us in our mission to improve global public health!

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.