Overview
Interim Operations Transformation Director – Consumables
We are seeking an experienced interim leader to drive a six-month transformation programme within the consumables division of a bioanalytical instrumentation scale-up based in Oxford. The role focuses on rapidly scaling consumables operations — including optical slides, calibrants, and reagents — by strengthening supply chain resilience, production efficiency, and quality control frameworks.
Location: Oxford (predominantly on-site, with flexible working). Day Rate / FTC: Competitive & DOE.
Key Objectives
* Deliver a 6-month transformation roadmap focused on stabilisation, optimisation, and scalability of consumables operations.
* Rapidly assess current operational gaps and implement quick wins in supply chain, production, and quality.
* Strengthen relationships with contract manufacturing organisations (CMOs) and key suppliers to improve reliability and reduce lead times.
* Introduce data-driven operational performance metrics to improve visibility and decision-making.
* Establish a robust foundation for long-term operational scalability beyond the interim period.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Transformation
* Lead a focused transformation programme across consumables manufacturing, supply chain, and quality control.
* Rapidly diagnose operational bottlenecks and execute targeted process improvements.
* Design and implement scalable systems to support increased production volumes and new product introductions.
Supply Chain & Production Optimisation
* Strengthen end-to-end supply chain strategy, improving OTIF performance, yield, and cost control.
* Manage relationships with CMOs and critical suppliers, ensuring performance KPIs are met.
* Implement robust planning and scheduling processes to balance demand and capacity effectively.
Quality & Compliance
* Ensure consumables operations fully comply with relevant ISO, GMP, and regulatory standards.
* Partner with QA/RA to enhance quality systems and ensure readiness for audits and CAPAs.
Leadership & Stakeholder Management
* Provide decisive leadership to operations, production, and supply chain teams during the transformation period.
* Act as the key operational interface at the senior leadership level, reporting on transformation progress and risks.
* Mentor and upskill team members to embed a culture of continuous improvement.
Candidate Profile
* Proven track record as an Operations Director, Site Lead, or Transformation Leader within consumables, biotech, medical devices, or similar regulated manufacturing environments.
* Experience leading short-term transformation programmes in scaling, high-growth businesses.
* Strong expertise in supply chain optimisation, production planning, and quality management.
* Knowledge of ISO and GMP standards with experience managing audits and compliance frameworks.
* Hands-on, data-driven, and comfortable delivering rapid change while aligning with long-term strategic goals.
Seniority level
* Director
Employment type
* Contract
Job function
* Production and Supply Chain
Industries
* Biotechnology Research, Nanotechnology Research, and Measuring and Control Instrument Manufacturing
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