R&D Director of Operations
The closing date is 04 May 2026.
Job responsibilities
- Provide decisive and strategic leadership across our expanding research operations supporting continuous improvement across the R&D function
- Ensure operational teams deliver efficient, high quality support for internally developed research
- Lead the effective setup and delivery of externally sponsored studies, meeting ambitious national performance targets
- Strengthen and evolve partnerships with the University of Exeter, other HEIs and life sciences partners
About You
- A robust leader, able to lead confidently through challenge, change, and pressure
- Someone who makes sound decisions, holds people to account, and is not afraid to tackle difficult issues constructively
- An experienced R&D operations leader, with significant NHS experience
- Preferably someone with a clinical background, enabling you to bridge research and clinical practice effectively
- Highly knowledgeable in regulatory trials, research governance, and research performance frameworks
- A confident relationship builder who can work with senior stakeholders, sponsors, and partners
- Committed to creating an environment where high quality research can thrive at scale
Benefits
- 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays for longer service
- Access to comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups
- Extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure; ability to spread cost of technology and home appliances
- National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts
- Salary sacrifice options including NHS Pension scheme, nursery, car lease schemes, and Cycle to work scheme
EEO Statement
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. Preference will be given to staff with Priority and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary to submit for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer name
Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust