Business Unit Lead

Job description

Business Unit Leadership, Biosciences

Role Purpose

This Business Unit leadership role is a senior executive leader responsible for the strategic turnaround and growth of a multi‑disciplinary Biosciences business unit, covering Biology and Toxicology service lines. This individual will drive operational excellence, strengthen financial performance, and lead cultural and organisational transformation following a period of underperformance. The remit includes full accountability for restoring profitability, elevating scientific delivery, and positioning the business for sustainable long‑term success.

Key Responsibilities

• Business Unit Leadership: Hold full P&L accountability for the Biosciences business unit, leading financial recovery, driving margin improvement, and ensuring delivery against budget and growth targets.
• Site & Operational Leadership: Provide visible and credible leadership across scientific teams-including Translational Biology, Structural Biology, and Toxicology-ensuring high performance and strong engagement.
• Strategic Direction: Define and execute a clear Biosciences strategy aligned with wider corporate objectives, market dynamics, and evolving client needs.
• Scientific & Operational Excellence: Oversee delivery of scientific programmes with a focus on quality, client satisfaction, and robust scientific standards.
• Commercial Growth: Strengthen the value proposition through portfolio evolution and scientific innovation.
• Executive Collaboration: Operate as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to cross‑functional decision-making and supporting broader corporate initiatives, including potential M&A activity.

Core Competencies & Experience

• Turnaround Leadership: Proven track record leading complex scientific or technical organisations through restructuring, transformation, or turnaround, with quantifiable improvements in performance and culture.
• Commercial & Financial Acumen: Demonstrable success managing full P&L, driving financial recovery, and enabling commercial growth in a science‑driven or technical environment.
• Scientific Credibility: Recognised authority or senior-level experience within drug discovery or related biosciences domains, with the presence and credibility to engage clients, partners, and senior stakeholders.
• People Leadership: Strong ability to mentor, motivate, and inspire high‑performing scientific and operational teams.
• Strategic Thinker: Experienced in shaping and executing business strategy at executive level.
• Customer Orientation: Demonstrated commitment to high‑quality client delivery and building long-term strategic relationships.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

London

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

08-03-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English