Site Manager – Animal Research Facility (North)

About the role

Our client, a Mauritius‑based company supporting leading biomedical and pharmaceutical research in the US and Europe, is looking for a proactive Site Manager to oversee its North‑region animal research facility. The role combines operational leadership, compliance management and team development to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and research quality.

Key responsibilities

• Establish, manage and continuously improve site operations in line with SOPs, the Animal Care and Use Programme and organisational values.
• Maintain AAALAC accreditation and ensure compliance with regulatory, legislative and internal standards, keeping the site audit‑ready at all times.
• Implement and drive the Quality Management System, occupational health, safety and biosafety programmes together with veterinary and operational teams.
• Oversee daily delivery of animal care, production and research support while meeting SOP, AAALAC and regulatory requirements.
• Lead a team of approximately 60 staff, handling workforce planning, performance management, training, employee relations and retention.
• Prepare and control operational budgets, manage resources, facilities, equipment and materials within approved financial limits.
• Plan, execute and monitor projects assigned by the Operations Manager, ensuring timelines, budgets and performance targets are met.
• Coordinate closely with production, veterinary, research and quality departments to ensure integrated operations and high‑quality outcomes.
• Ensure robust data management, reporting, compliance monitoring and continuous improvement through audits and corrective actions.

Required profile

• Degree in Agricultural Sciences, Biological Sciences or Management.
• Minimum 5 years of hands‑on experience in a comparable site‑management role within an animal research or biomedical environment.
• Proven ability to lead large multidisciplinary teams and foster a high‑performance culture.
• Strong knowledge of AAALAC standards, QMS, occupational health, safety and biosafety requirements.
• Excellent communication skills and a customer‑focused mindset.

Required skills

• Knowledge of AAALAC accreditation processes.
• Experience with Quality Management Systems implementation.
• Understanding of occupational health, safety and biosafety protocols.

What we offer

• Leadership role in an internationally focused, high‑impact research environment.
• Opportunity to drive operational excellence and influence animal welfare standards.
• Competitive remuneration package aligned with senior managerial responsibilities.