Operations Manager Operations

We are a fast-growing biotech start-up focusing on next-generation precision biologics driven by science collaboration and curiosity. We are looking for an Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operational delivery of the companys operations laboratory and infrastructure processes ensuring effective execution in line with governance set by the Head of Operations.

The role focuses on implementation oversight and continuous improvement of operational processes. It also includes light-touch diary meeting and office coordination to support leadership and operational priorities. Strategic ownership HR advisory employee relations and employment decision-making remain with senior leadership and external HR advisers.

The scope of the role will evolve over time requiring flexibility judgement and the ability to adapt to changing organisational needs.

What you will do

Business & Operational Leadership

• Lead the day-to-day delivery of operational processes and infrastructure.
• Implement and maintain operational systems policies and procedures.
• Oversee execution of operational activities supporting business growth.
• Identify operational issues escalating risks with recommendations to the Head of Operations.
• Lead and contribute to cross-functional operational initiatives.

Laboratory Operations & Compliance

• Lead day-to-day management of laboratory operations and facilities.
• Oversee implementation of laboratory health & safety requirements including risk assessments and audit readiness.
• Manage supplier relationships for laboratory services consumables and equipment.
• Coordinate servicing maintenance and lifecycle management of lab equipment.

Finance Procurement & Operational Reporting

• Manage execution of operational finance processes including purchase orders supplier coordination invoice workflows and corporate card controls.
• Prepare operational and management information to support leadership decision-making.
• Maintain preferred supplier arrangements and procurement processes.
• Liaise with finance providers to ensure appropriate controls are followed.

Governance & compliance coordination

• Maintain operational governance frameworks and controls.
• Coordinate compliance-related processes across the business.
• Support leadership with governance documentation.

HR Administration & Process Coordination (high-level only)

• Coordinate day-to-day HR administration processes including onboarding and offboarding logistics and recruitment administration.
• Act as the operational liaison between managers and external HR advisers.
• Maintain operational oversight of compliance-related people processes (e.g. right-to-work documentation).

Leadership Enablement & Office Coordination

• Enable the Executive Team by coordinating operational requirements meetings and governance processes.
• Provide light-touch diary and meeting coordination as required to support operational delivery.
• Maintain operational systems supporting effective leadership and office operations.

Culture & Organisational Operations

• Coordinate delivery of wellbeing and engagement initiatives.
• Manage logistics and planning for company-wide initiatives.

General Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted operational partner to senior leadership.
• Exercise discretion and confidentiality.
• Carry out additional duties consistent with the role.

What we are looking for

• Exceptional organisational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Life sciences background with experience working in a laboratory environment
• BSc or equivalent experience in life sciences discipline
• Strong understanding and practical experience of implementing and adhering to laboratory health & safety requirements within a scientific or biotech setting. NEBOSH accreditation or equivalent would be advantageous.
• Experience supporting senior leaders or operating in an executive-level operational environment (now including light-touch diary and meeting coordination).
• Experience working with procurement systems (e.g. Amici or equivalent) and supporting laboratory or operational procurement processes.
• High attention to detail across operational administrative financial and legal-related tasks.
• Understanding of financial processes including purchase orders invoicing budget tracking management accounts and operational reporting.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build effective working relationships across teams and with external partners.
• Proactive adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-growing evolving organisation.
• Experience working within a biotech pharmaceutical scientific research or similarly regulated environment.
• Strong IT capability including proficiency in Microsoft Office video conferencing tools (e.g. Zoom Teams) and document management systems (e.g. SharePoint Google Drive).
• Familiarity with HR processes UK employment frameworks and UKVI sponsor license duties is desirable but not essential.
• Demonstrates strong networking and relationship-building skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Positive professional and solutions-focused approach demonstrating initiative flexibility and sound judgement.
• Maintains a high standard of professionalism in all interactions.
• Exercises discretion and confidentiality at all times when handling sensitive information.

About Ensocell

Ensocell is a new venture capital-backed life science company at the intersection of single cell genomics spatial genomics AI and drug discovery. Our mission is to decode the complexities of human disease biology identify novel therapeutic intervention points and develop precision therapeutics targeting these intervention pointsto create transformational new medicines.

At Ensocell we foster a vital interdisciplinary and collaborative scientific culture. We are seeking talented highly motivated and intellectually curious individuals to join our team and share in our mission. Ensocell supports a welcoming and inclusive work environment that encourages openness and diversity.

Note to recruitment agencies: we are not looking for assistance at this stage so please contact the HR departmentonlyat if you think you can help in the future.

Required Experience:

Manager