Head of Innovation – Axis Bioservices Limited
Location: Limavady, Northern Ireland
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Travel: Up to 20% (conferences, client visits, industry events)
Salary: £45,000 – £55,000 per annum (dependent on experience) + commission on sales
About Axis Bioservices
Axis Bioservices is a Northern Ireland-based contract research organisation (CRO) delivering high‑quality life‑sciences research and development services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies worldwide. We specialise in assay development, pre‑clinical testing, and advanced scientific support, helping clients bring innovative products to market.
The Role
We are seeking a dynamic Head of Innovation to drive Axis Bioservices growth through the creation, validation and launch of new assays and services. This senior‑level role blends hands‑on scientific expertise with commercial acumen and strategic vision. You will develop commercially viable scientific offerings, manage select client projects, and actively build new business through client outreach, networking and representation at conferences. This is a rare opportunity for a scientist with a passion for innovation to take a central role in shaping the company’s future capabilities and services.
Key Responsibilities
* Identify market gaps and client needs, developing novel assays and services for commercial launch.
* Lead internal R&D projects from concept to validated service.
* Oversee select client projects, ensuring scientific delivery to agreed timelines and quality standards.
* Build new customer relationships and deliver technical sales presentations.
* Represent Axis Bioservices at conferences, industry events and client meetings.
* Achieve agreed revenue targets, with commission incentives for successful project acquisition.
* Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic innovation priorities.
Essential Criteria
* PhD or MSc in a life science discipline (e.g., Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology).
* Demonstrated experience in assay/method development within a CRO, biotech or pharma context.
* Strong understanding of commercialisation of scientific services.
* Excellent communication, presentation and networking skills.
* Proven ability to identify and act on new market opportunities.
Desirable Criteria
* Experience presenting at national or international scientific conferences.
* Existing network of industry contacts.
* Business development experience in a scientific organisation.
* Track record of launching a scientific service or product to market.
Salary & Benefits
* Base salary: £45,000 – £55,000 per annum depending on experience.
* Commission: Percentage of new revenue generated via client acquisition.
* Pension scheme.
* Professional development and conference attendance support.
* Travel expenses for client visits and events.
* Flexible working options where possible.
Application Process
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant scientific and commercial experience, and how you have contributed to service or product innovation in your career.
What We OfferWe will help you build a career with a progressive and dynamically growing company by providing full on‑site training, an 8% combined pension contribution scheme, flexible working hours, a healthcare package and staff benefits including private medical cover. We support staff wellbeing and have initiatives to support your physical and mental health.
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