Head of Business Operations

The interview process consists of an online discussion followed by an in-person interview for shortlisted candidates.

In-person interview: Monday 24 November 2025

Closing date for applications: Monday 10 November 2025

The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is a globally leading multidisciplinary research institute with a community of over 900 researchers investigating the spectrum of neurodegenerative disorders causing dementia, driving a step change in our understanding of neurodegeneration, and accelerating the discovery, development and delivery of interventions that will help diagnose, treat, and ultimately prevent dementia.

About You

We are seeking a proactive and experienced Head of Business Operations to lead the day-to-day management and operational delivery of UK DRI’s business functions.

This pivotal role ensures high-quality, efficient, and compliant operations, supporting our national research programme and strategic objectives.

You will oversee operational IT systems, grants and membership management, and reporting obligations, while ensuring alignment with governance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational leadership: Lead the Business Operations team, managing daily activities and implementing robust processes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and delivery.
• Strategic planning: Work with senior leadership to develop and analyse KPIs and operational metrics, ensuring alignment with UK DRI’s 2030 Impact Indicators.
• Governance & reporting: Ensure adherence to legal, statutory, and data security requirements; manage risk registers and business continuity plans.
• Stakeholder management: Act as the primary contact for external partners, vendors, and stakeholders, building strong relationships.
• Team Development: Line manage, mentor, and support the Business Operations team, promoting a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

We are looking for a dynamic professional with:

• A degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
• Significant operational management experience, ideally within a university, healthcare, or research environment.
• Proven expertise in strategic planning, process optimisation, budget management, and CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce).
• Experience in risk management, business continuity planning, and reporting against business targets and managing business reporting systems.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels, including board and external partners.
• Demonstrated line management experience, with a track record of developing high-performing teams.
• Experience in managing vendor relationships and multi-project environments.
• Experience of research funding/grants management is desirable.

You will be passionate about making a positive impact on those affected by neurodegenerative diseases and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a ground breaking national research initiative and work with leading experts and stakeholders in dementia research.

Receive a competitive salary and benefits package including:

• 27 days holiday + UK Bank Holidays
• Up to 6 business closure days
• Option to purchase 5 days’ annual leave
• Contributory pension scheme
• Single medical cover
• Group Life Assurance 4x base salary
• Group Income Protection and Critical illness cover
• Season ticket loan
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme
• Comprehensive programme of voluntary benefits

The UK DRI currently operates hybrid working, with a minimum of three days onsite.

About the UK DRI

Today, over 1M people in the UK are living with dementia and related neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and motor neuron disease (MND). The impact of these incurable and progressive conditions on individuals and their families is devastating. Societal costs are staggering and growing as the population ages.

Due to major advances in our understanding of the biology of these disorders the field is at an inflection point with the next decade promising to deliver transformative breakthroughs in therapies and a new era of predictive, preventative, and precision medicine. The UK is well placed to play a leading role in this revolution due to its strengths in science required for discovery and delivery, led by the UK DRI working with our world-class university-based centres. To find out more about the UK's leading biomedical research institute dedicated to neurodegenerative diseases, visit. UK Dementia Research Institute.

To apply

Please submit your CV and covering letter detailing why you wish to join the UK DRI and your experience for this role.

No agencies please.

By applying to this role, you understand and agree that your information will be shared within the UK DRI People & Culture team and/or any team members who will be part of the hiring process.

UK DRI is committed to equal opportunities.

The UK DRI embraces diversity, inclusion and accessibility for all of our people. We are committed to building a diverse organisation that represents the communities we serve and ensuring inclusion in everything we do. This means ensuring our recruitment processes are barrier-free and as inclusive as possible to everyone. We will make adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition.