Manager Operations Animal Research

Job Description

For our Animal Health location in Boxmeer, we are currently recruiting a Manager Operations (Animal Research Department).

Welcome to our team

Our Animal Research Department (ARD) in Boxmeer is dedicated to executing animal studies that support our Research & Development (R&D) and Quality Control (QC) initiatives, while strictly adhering to the 3R principles: Replace, Reduce, and Refine. With a team of more than 60 skilled employees, the ARD conducts experiments aimed at developing innovative vaccines and biotherapeutics, as well as facilitating the compliant release of licensed vaccines in line with regulatory guidelines. Additionally, the department conducts pathology studies across various species. ARD is structured into four operational teams focused on experimental research, a Veterinary Team responsible for ensuring the highest standards of animal care, and a team of specialists supporting Safety, Quality, and Project Management. Together, these teams play a vital role in advancing research initiatives that enhance scientific knowledge and drive innovation, while upholding the highest ethical standards in animal research.

Tasks and responsibilities

The ARD Operations Manager is responsible for the operational management and performance of one or more teams within the Animal Research Department in Boxmeer. The role ensures safe, compliant, and efficient execution of animal studies, while driving continuous improvement across People, Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost. The Operations Manager builds and develops a high-performing team of animal technicians and animal technician specialists, aligns resources with study demand, and contributes to the strategic development of ARD by translating strategy into operational plans and taking responsibility for their execution as a sponsor or project lead. Through strong stakeholder management and collaboration with R&D, QC, EHS, Facility Management, and Veterinary functions, the role enhances internal customer satisfaction and the quality of operational output.

Main responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of animal technicians and animal technician specialists, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Manage daily operations including study execution, resource planning, and workload balancing.
• Ensure compliance with GLP, EHS, and company standards and maintain inspection readiness.
• Collaborate with R&D, QC, EHS, Facility Management, and Veterinary stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives as a sponsor or project lead and translate strategy into operational plans.
• Monitor and improve performance across People, Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost metrics.
• Manage facilities, assets, and systems within the team(s).

Your profile

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Biosciences or a related field.
• Proven experience in team management.
• Strong stakeholder management skills.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Fluency in English and Dutch.

What we offer

We offer an opportunity to enhance internal customer satisfaction and elevate the quality of our ARD outputs. Your leadership will ensure that the department not only meets but consistently exceeds expectations, driving excellence in all aspects of our operations.

• A 3% year-end bonus and an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.
• A minimum of 35,5 vacation days.
• Travel expense reimbursement and a solid pension scheme.
• A high-quality company restaurant with daily fresh and healthy options.
• Excellent accessibility: the train station is located directly at our main entrance and there is ample parking available.
• A contribution towards your personal sports subscription to support your vitality.
• A beautiful private park on site, ideal for a walk, break, or moment of relaxation.
• Mental wellbeing support via Lyra Health for you and your family members.
• Access to a dedicated prayer/meditation room.
• Extensive career growth opportunities thanks to the size of the site and the presence of many disciplines and global departments represented in Boxmeer.
• A workplace within an organization that continues to grow and evolve.

Animal Health

Our Animal Health Division is a trusted global leader in veterinary medicine, dedicated to preserving and improving the health, well-being, and performance of animals and the people who care for them. We are a global team of professionals working together to make a positive difference in animal care and the world’s food supply, with a deep sense of responsibility towards our customers, consumers, animals, society, and our planet.

Required Skills

Experimentation, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Laboratory Techniques, Mentorship, People Leadership, Research Proposal Development, Research Techniques, Technical Documentation Management, Vaccine Development.