Chief of Staff and Head of Executive Operations

Salary for this Role:

From £100,000 plus benefits, subject to skills and experience

Job Title:

Reports to:

Closing Date:

Job Description:

About us…

The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions.  

The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. We’ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high-quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy. 

About the role…

We’re seeking a Chief of Staff and Head of Executive Operations (*internally this role will be referred to as Head of Executive Operations) to act as a trusted adviser and strategic partner to the COO and Executive Team. In this pivotal role, you will oversee communication, collaboration, and alignment across the executive function, ensuring priorities are delivered efficiently and effectively.

This is a high-profile position overseeing multiple workstreams and major institutional projects, coordinating people and processes to achieve seamless delivery.

A key focus will be coordinating major institute-wide projects and governance processes, including the Crick’s Septennial Review in 2028, a critical exercise determining future funding, and the annual Scientific Advisory Board meeting, which brings together leading international researchers to advise the Crick’s Director on strategy.

You will also lead the Research Management Support (RMS) team, who provide strategic and operational support to the Crick’s senior scientific leadership.

The role requires a balance of strategic insight, operational rigour, and strong organisational skills. You’ll thrive on enabling others, managing multiple priorities, and ensuring complex programmes are delivered to the highest standard. Success will depend on your ability to anticipate needs, think critically, and provide practical solutions while demonstrating professionalism, discretion, and a strong alignment with the Crick’s mission and values.

About You…

You will be a highly organised and experienced professional with a proven track record in executive operations, programme management, or strategic coordination within complex organisations, such as research, higher education, health, or the wider not-for-profit sector. A background in scientific research or academia is an advantage but not essential, and we welcome applications from candidates with experience in large, multi-stakeholder or mission-driven organisations where coordinating priorities, delivering outcomes, and influencing senior teams are key.

• Substantial leadership and management experience in a senior operational or strategic role.*

• Demonstrated experience in supporting cross-functional teams, managing complex projects, and working with executive-level stakeholders.*

• Strong management, organisational and project management skills, with a proven track record of driving projects to completion.*

• Strongly collaborative and inclusive style, with ability to build strong relationships across the organisation and lead through influence.*

• Confident in interacting with colleagues at the highest levels of the Institute, displaying gravitas and able to offer advice, guidance and challenge where necessary.*

• First class oral communication skills with the ability to present clearly to diverse audiences.

• High level of integrity, with the ability to handle confidential and sensitive information discreetly.

See the full Job Description here.

About Working at the Crick…

Our values   

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture!  

• We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently.  

• We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world.  

• We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community.  

At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences. We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply.

If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: Rachel.howard@crick.ac.uk  

Find out more about life at the Crick. 

What will you receive?   

At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development:  

• Visas: Applicants for this role will be eligible for sponsorship to work in the UK  

• Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.  

• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.  

• Health & Well-being:  

• 24/7 GP consultation services.  

• Occupational health services and mental health support programs.  

• Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.  

• Work-Life Balance:  

• Back-up care for dependents.  

• Childcare support allowance.  

• Annual leave purchase options.  

• Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events. 

• Perks:  

• Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts.  

• Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.  

Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.   

We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.