Head of Operations (Life Sciences)

Position Summary:

 Discovery Life Sciences is a trusted provider of quality biospecimens and laboratory services to hundreds of researchers across the U.S. and around the world. The Head of Operations plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future in Romania - overseeing day-to-day operations, developing and implementing business strategies, and ensuring operational, financial, and commercial excellence.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Define and implement the company’s operational strategy in Romania in alignment with global goals
• Drive efficiency, scalability, and innovation across business processes, ensuring operational excellence
• Identify and capture opportunities to expand market presence and partnerships in Romania
• Strengthen relationships with existing partners and build new alliances within the life sciences community
• Ensure robust financial oversight, reporting, and compliance with corporate standards
• Act as a legal proxy of the company in Romania
• Monitor KPIs and ensure achievement of operational and financial objectives
• Prepare and deliver various types of operational reports
• Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing team
• Attract and retain top talent in life sciences
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation
• Provide coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities
• Monitor trends in technology, life sciences, and regulatory frameworks to ensure competitive advantage
• Propose and execute initiatives to strengthen the company’s positioning in Romania
• Ensure smooth day-to-day operations across all business functions
• Develop, implement, and monitor internal processes, policies, and compliance frameworks
• Oversee quality, risk management, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Prepare documents for site initiation according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Conduct meetings for establishing new partner relationships

Education/Qualification/Experience:

• University degree in Life Sciences (Pharmacy, Medicine, Biology, or related) or related experience
• 3+ years of leadership experience in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, or related industries
• Proven track record in operations leadership, business development, or sales operations
• Strong network within Romania’s pharma and healthcare ecosystem (highly desirable)
• Strong strategic thinker with proven execution skills
• Exceptional leadership, people management, and team development capabilities
• Excellent financial and commercial acumen
• Fluent in Romanian (native level) and English (written & spoken)
• Superior communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
• Proactive, resilient, and solutions-oriented mindset with a "hands-on" leadership style
• Experience working in international environments and cross-border teams
• Ability to travel within Romania and abroad