Jobs in Old Hurst

Chief Scientist - Virology/Antigen Production

Are you an experienced leader ready to take the helm of a high-impact life sciences manufacturing site? We’re looking for a strategic and hands-on Chief Scientist to lead operations at a specialist biotechnology facility. In this key leadership role, you’ll oversee production, drive performance, and champion continuous improvement, ensuring products are delivered on time and to the highest standards of quality. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have a passion for developing teams and operational excellence, this could be your next move.

About the Role

As Chief Scientist, you’ll provide strategic and operational leadership across the site, ensuring compliance, safety, and efficiency in all areas. You’ll work closely with manufacturing, R&D, and senior stakeholders to deliver high-quality biological products, meet KPIs, and foster a positive, high-performing team culture. This is a role for someone who’s comfortable balancing big-picture planning with day-to-day execution.

What You’ll Be Doing

Leading, developing and motivating a high-performing manufacturing team

Ensuring timely, high-quality production and delivery of biological products

Driving site performance in line with budget and operational targets

Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence

Managing site health and safety and regulatory compliance (e.g. COSHH, SAPO)

Reporting on KPIs and performance metrics

Maintaining and enhancing site facilities and infrastructure

Supporting change management and business transformation initiatives

What We’re Looking For

A degree or postgraduate qualification in a scientific discipline

Proven experience in a senior leadership role in a life sciences or biotechnology environment

Strong Virology background and understanding

Strong understanding of antigen production, downstream processing, and troubleshooting

Demonstrated experience managing operational functions and cross-functional teams

Familiarity with site health and safety standards (IOSH or similar desirable)

Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels

Proven leadership in delivering results through people, process, and performance improvement

Salary & Location

Salary: £70,000 – £85,000 (depending on experience)

Location: On-site, Huntingdon

Regrettably, this company is unable to offer (or extend) sponsorship and only those with existing Right to Work in the UK will be considered.

Cranleigh STEM & Sustainability recruitment is operating as sole recruitment partner