Manager, Lab Animal Operations

About the Role

The Manager, Operations is accountable for the overall operational performance and success of the operational areas of responsibility. This hands-on role will have a highly visible and dynamic leadership presence at the facility, supporting the implementation of company strategies and ensuring regulatory and operational compliance. The role demands a strong emphasis on safety, quality, productivity, operational efficiency, maintenance, and cost control/reduction. This position is on-site with approximately 25% travel required.

This role encompasses both day-to-day operational management and strategic planning. Key aspects include adherence to management best practices, technical and scientific expertise, and strong relationship-building skills to manage and motivate a diverse team. The Manager, Operations will ensure the company’s brand is upheld by maintaining high aesthetic, scientific, and technical standards to competently deliver to customers.

Responsibilities

• Financial Responsibility: Understand the profit and loss for operational areas, focusing on revenue recognition and cost control.
• Visible Leadership:
  • Interact with departments, quality assurance, safety, and support staff.
  • Hold regular meetings with staff to establish two-way communication.
  • Cascade important information and attend customer/regulatory meetings.
• Compliance:
  • Ensure regulatory compliance and adherence to duties/actions maintaining compliance.
  • Drive quality metrics and implement Tour Ready and 5S standards.
  • Ensure familiarity with Health and Safety regulations and high-quality animal care.
• Operational Delivery:
  • Maintain high standards of regulatory compliance (AAALAC, USDA, client/internal audits, business continuity, animal welfare).
  • Support marketing/sales efforts and regulatory roles.
  • Manage staffing levels, technician training, and budget forecasting.
  • Monitor performance to achieve revenue, cost, and profit goals.
  • Respond to client feedback and meet productivity goals.
  • Recommend new facility/program designs and establish production/sales models.
  • Monitor quality systems and set standards for compliance.
  • Conduct performance evaluations and implement development plans.
  • Collaborate with HR on workforce planning, recruitment, and performance management.
• Customer Relations:
  • Focus on customer satisfaction and loyalty through quality and agreed expectations.
  • Interact with major account holders to align operational strategy with market needs.
  • Develop awareness of customer feedback (Voice of the Customer) and create action plans.
• Quality, Health, and Safety:
  • Adopt the company’s Quality Policy and take accountability for quality metrics.
  • Ensure alignment with the company’s Vision, Mission, and Values.
  • Communicate safety/operational/quality issues and achievements to senior management.
  • Support disaster recovery plans and contingency planning.
• Business Continuity and Risk:
  • Implement business continuity policies and ensure annual procedure testing.
  • Be visible and available during times of need; report risks to line management.
• KPIs: Contribute to company-wide metrics, operational metrics, voice of the customer, quality metrics, employee-related metrics, and profit and loss.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, preferred in Life Science, Animal Science, or Management, or equivalent managerial experience.
• 8–10 years of management experience.
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in the biomedical industry.
• Experience working with animals; animal production experience preferred.
• Previous experience with process improvement methodologies.

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to manage site operations with P&L responsibility and people management.
• Strong analytical and conflict resolution skills.
• Proven verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task.
• Preferred: Advanced study in engineering or business.

Benefits

• Health and dental coverage.
• Short- and long-term disability.
• Paid time off and paid parental leave.
• 401K and more.