JOB DETAILS:
Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit) was established in 1988 to improve the understanding and control of the HIV epidemic in Uganda and globally. Since its establishment the Unit has grown, and now also covers research on vaccines, immunology, virology and non-communicable diseases. The Unit is part of LSHTM, has core funding from the MRC, and works closely together with UVRI, which hosts the Unit on its Entebbe campus. The Unit’s scientific activities are delivered via three broad research Themes (Viral Pathogens, Vaccine Research and Non-Communicable Diseases) to maximise cross-programme fertilisation, allowing for greater flexibility in response to the evolving research landscape and enabling the delivery of studies addressing priority health challenges in Uganda, greater Africa and worldwide. The Unit, with a compelling record of scientific achievement and a suite of cutting-edge platforms and capabilities, is uniquely placed to play a leading role in the continued growth of the scientific landscape in Africa, while directly supporting the development and training of talented African researchers.

Having recently appointed a new Unit Director, the MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit is now seeking to appoint a new Unit Chief Operating Officer (UCOO). This is a unique opportunity for an experienced manager to join the Unit, at an exciting time in its history, playing an instrumental role in the development and delivery of its mission and objectives. The UCOO will be expected to support the Unit Director and, in association with LSHTM COO, to ensure effective leadership and management of the Unit. Responsible for the management and planning of operational services, the post holder will ensure compliance with policies and procedures, manage Unit budgets, and assist the Unit Director in planning and implementing the business strategy for the Unit.

The post holder should have experience of delivering transformational change and be able to evidence strategic alignment and optimal service delivery and organisation. The post holder will be a strong strategic and operational manager and will need to be a highly credible leader. Direct reports and teams will look for inspirational leadership, so candidates should evidence staff development, creativity and autonomy. They will share the Unit’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and nurturing culture in which all colleagues and students have the opportunity to thrive and progress their careers.