Head of Operations

Unit: Operations  No. Of Positions: 1 (one) Reporting Line: General Director (GD) Contract Type: Full-time employment. Open-term contract. Indicative Annual Gross Salary Range: €50,000 - €60,000 The salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.  Eligibility: Open to current CYENS employees only. Application Deadline:  DATE (2 weeks)   The Opportunity  CYENS is seeking an experienced and capable professional to lead its Operations Department. Reporting directly to the General Director, the Head of Operations will be responsible for the strategic planning, management and coordination of the Centre’s operational functions, ensuring effective service delivery, compliance and efficient use of resources. The role oversees the Research Office, Facilities Management, Information Technology Services, Research Laboratory Management and Human Resources, contributing to the effective operation, sustainability and continued development of CYENS. Key Responsibilities:   - Lead the strategic planning, management and coordination of the Operations Department, ensuring alignment with CYENS’ objectives and priorities. - Oversee the Research Office, Facilities Management, IT Services, Research Laboratory Management and Human Resources, ensuring effective coordination and service delivery. - Develop, implement and review operational policies, procedures and improvement initiatives. - Manage the department’s budget, resources and KPIs, supporting financial planning, performance monitoring and organisational sustainability. - Ensure compliance with relevant policies, regulatory requirements, health and safety standards, and internal governance arrangements. - Oversee operational risk management, business continuity and the effective management of facilities, IT infrastructure, laboratories and scientific equipment. - Lead and support the teams within the department, monitor performance, and collaborate with other departments and the Executive Committee to support the Centre’s objectives. Skills and Competencies The ideal candidate will demonstrate:   - Strong leadership, strategic thinking and decision-making skills. - Excellent organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities. - Strong analytical skills and a results-oriented approach. - Effective communication, collaboration and stakeholder management skills. - The ability to lead teams, manage change and resolve operational challenges. - A proactive approach to problem-solving, continuous improvement and accountability. Key requirements Essential Requirements  - University Degree: a Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field  - At least five years of advanced management experience in senior positions. - Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, leadership, budgeting and resource management. - Experience in developing and implementing policies, procedures and operational plans. - Strong understanding of governance, organisational management and regulatory compliance. - Good computer literacy. - Language requirements: Excellent written and oral English-language skills are essential.   Desirable Qualifications and Experience - Experience overseeing multiple operational functions or departments. - Experience in research, higher education, innovation or a comparable organisational environment. - Experience in risk management, business continuity and continuous improvement. Application process  For full consideration interested applicants should submit their application through Personio   - An updated CV. - A cover letter outlining their suitability for the role, relevant experience and motivation for applying. - Recent performance evaluation documentation Important Information - This is an internal vacancy and is open exclusively to current CYENS employees. - Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered. - All applications will be treated confidentially. - The selection process will be conducted in accordance with CYENS’ recruitment procedures. For general enquiries, applicants may contact the HR Department at [email protected].