Director of Laboratory Operations
FRS Recruitment ·www.frsrecruitment.com
Apply directDirector of Laboratory Operations
Lead Laboratory Excellence | Shape the Future of Pharmaceutical Innovation
A leading life sciences organisation is seeking an experienced Director of Laboratory Operations to provide strategic and operational leadership across GMP laboratory functions.
This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for a proven laboratory professional to drive operational excellence, develop high-performing teams, and influence the future direction of laboratory capabilities within a regulated pharmaceutical environment.
The Role
As Director of Laboratory Operations, you will:
- Lead and optimise GMP laboratory operations, ensuring quality, compliance, and operational excellence.
- Develop laboratory strategy, performance standards, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Lead, coach, and develop laboratory leadership teams.
- Oversee resource planning, budgets, equipment investment, and operational performance.
- Partner with pharmaceutical stakeholders and senior leadership to support growth and innovation.
- Ensure alignment with GMP, FDA regulations, and global quality standards.
About You
You are an experienced laboratory leader with a strong background in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or CRO environments.
You will bring:
- 12+ years’ experience in GMP laboratory operations or pharmaceutical development.
- Proven leadership experience managing laboratory teams and complex operations (5+years).
- Strong knowledge of GMP regulations, analytical development, QC processes, method validation, release testing, and stability programmes.
- Experience managing budgets, strategic planning, and operational improvement initiatives.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and team development skills.
- Experience working across global teams, supporting business growth, or leading transformation initiatives would be advantageous.
What’s On Offer
- Attractive executive-level salary package and benefits.
- A senior leadership role with significant strategic influence.
- The opportunity to lead talented scientific teams and shape laboratory operations.
- Career growth within an innovative life sciences organisation.
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please get in touch.