Director of Preclinical Operations

Director of Preclinical Operations

A growing Contract Research Organisation in the United States is seeking an experienced senior leader to oversee its preclinical operations, including animal facilities and associated research functions.

This is a leadership opportunity for someone with a strong background in preclinical research, animal operations and regulated environments, who can drive operational performance, maintain high standards of animal welfare and compliance, and lead multidisciplinary teams across a range of preclinical services.

The Role

As Director of Preclinical Operations, you will be responsible for the strategic and operational oversight of preclinical functions, ensuring facilities, scientific teams and animal units operate efficiently and to the highest standards.

Working closely with senior leadership, scientific teams and operational stakeholders, you will oversee day-to-day activities, develop operational capabilities and ensure the organisation continues to deliver high-quality preclinical research services to its clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee preclinical operations, including animal facilities, husbandry teams and research functions
• Lead, develop and manage multidisciplinary teams across animal care, facility operations and preclinical research
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory requirements, animal welfare legislation and applicable quality standards
• Drive operational efficiency, resource planning and continuous improvement across facilities and research programmes
• Oversee facility capacity, staffing, budgets and operational planning
• Support the delivery of high-quality preclinical studies
• Work closely with scientific, veterinary, quality assurance and commercial teams to maintain service standards and support business growth
• Identify opportunities to expand capabilities, improve processes and strengthen the organisation's preclinical offering

Experience Required

• Significant experience in preclinical operations within a CRO, pharmaceutical or biotechnology environment
• Proven leadership experience overseeing animal facilities and preclinical research functions
• Strong understanding of laboratory animal science, husbandry operations, animal welfare and facility management
• Experience working within regulated research environments, with knowledge of applicable US requirements such as USDA regulations, the Animal Welfare Act and AAALAC accreditation standards
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop and manage large or multidisciplinary teams
• Experience with operational planning, resource allocation, budgets and continuous improvement
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively across scientific, veterinary and operational functions

This is an opportunity to take ownership of critical preclinical functions, develop operational capabilities and contribute to the continued growth of a US-based research organisation.