Senior Director of Operations

Overview

We are seeking a Senior Director of Operations to lead and coordinate all aspects of daily operations at our primate facility. This high-impact role reports directly to the General Manager and plays a critical part in ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and cross-departmental alignment across 18 functional areas.
 
 The ideal candidate is both a strategic thinker and an operational leader-comfortable presenting to the Board and senior leadership while maintaining hands-on visibility into facility activities and team performance.

Key Responsibilities

- Oversee site-wide operations, including: Animal Care, Husbandry, Veterinary Technical Teams, QA, Facilities, Food Services, IT, and Processing
 - Ensure regulatory compliance with USDA, AWA, AAALAC, and The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
 - Collaborate with veterinary staff to maintain the health and welfare of the nonhuman primate (NHP) colony
 - Monitor animal shipments and colony movement, ensuring accurate tracking and biosecurity practices
 - Partner with the General Manager and executive team to support board-level presentations and high-level planning
 - Foster a collaborative, accountable, and mission-driven workplace culture
 - Lead emergency response planning, SOP compliance, and staff safety training
 - Other duties as assigned

Leadership Scope

- Directly oversee 50+ staff across 18 departments
 - Lead, mentor, and develop cross-functional teams to ensure consistent adherence to SOPs, safety protocols, and performance expectations
 - Drive operational improvement initiatives and department-level coordination

Qualifications

- Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Biology, or related field required; Master's or advanced degree preferred
 - 10+ years managing complex animal facilities, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role
 - AALAS certifications (LAT, LATG, CMAR) highly desirable
 - Deep knowledge of animal welfare regulations and industry best practices
 - Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional management skills
 - Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with electronic health record systems
 - Spanish language skills a plus

Work Conditions & Physical Requirements

- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and work in varied environmental conditions, including heat and humidity
 - Ability to stand, walk, stoop, crouch, or crawl during facility walkthroughs and inspections
 - Work schedule may include weekends or holidays as needed