Assistant Manager of the Component Development Lab
This is a senior leadership role where you will help shape the future of blood component development at NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT). You will support and deputise for the Head of Component Development, leading a specialist laboratory team to develop and improve blood components that directly impact patient care. You will lead research and development projects, influence national practice, and work with a wide range of clinical, scientific and operational partners. This is an opportunity to contribute at scale, using your expertise to deliver high‑quality, innovative solutions that make a real difference to patients across the UK while developing yourself and others.
Main duties of the job
In this role you will be responsible for leading and delivering research and development projects that improve blood components and change clinical practice across NHSBT. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Deputising for the Head of Component Development in managing the laboratory and in providing leadership in development and validation of blood component products and processes.
- Planning and performing R&D projects to provide evidence for major change to services, including the development of new or improved blood components impacting clinical practice across a wide geographical area and multiple departments.
- Supervising CDL’s work plan for the evaluation of novel processes and technologies for blood component processing and quality in CDL Bristol.
- Being a key stakeholder in strategic procurement of critical manufacturing systems and technologies, working closely with other functions including Testing and Scientific Development.
- Appropriately communicating the outcome of CDL projects so that it may be used to change practice across the whole of the organisation.
- Providing leadership and direction to a team of scientists/matter experts in blood components and components development creating a culture where people can learn, contribute and progress.
- Ensuring high standards of quality and regulatory compliance of the Laboratory to MHRA/GMP regulations and others as required.
- Translating research findings into practice, ensuring improvements are embedded safely and effectively.
What we offer
- Hybrid working arrangements – because NHSBT works nationally, we’re able to offer hybrid working options that give you more flexibility to balance work with life.
- Flexible working options – we promote flexible working where the role allows. We’re happy to discuss what flexibility might look like for you.
- Generous annual leave – 27 days annual leave (pro rata for part-time) plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 29 days after 5 years’ service and to 33 days after 10 years.
- Inclusive pension scheme – the NHS Pension Scheme is a defined benefit scheme (not dependent on investment returns). Further details and outline of benefits can be found at: http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/information-about-nhs-pensions
- Supportive learning culture – we’ve fostered a culture of continuous learning where colleagues are well‑led, engaged, and encouraged to grow. We support you in reaching your full potential, both in your current role and future career. Our Thrive program embodies our commitment to learning and development, offering a wide range of activities to support your personal and professional growth. It’s open to everyone at NHSBT, ensuring you have the resources to succeed and shine in your role.
- Health and wellbeing support – we offer confidential services including occupational health, employee assistance programme, and wellbeing resources. Our support is available to all colleagues and we endeavour to provide tailored workplace adjustments where possible.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we welcome applications from disabled candidates. We will discuss any adjustments that may help you during the recruitment process.
Person Specification
Qualifications
- Masters level degree or higher in a clinical field or relevant science
- OR specialist knowledge demonstrated by a professional qualification equivalent to a Masters level
- OR demonstrable knowledge and experience equivalent to Masters level
- Demonstrate commitment to own Continued Professional Development (CPD)
Experience
- In‑depth knowledge of transfusion science, component development and regulatory requirements
- Thorough understanding of regulatory requirements relating to blood component manufacturing and development
- Proven ability to lead and manage services, people and complex programmes effectively
- Strong experience of improving services, driving innovation and influencing strategic direction
- Ability to analyse complex scientific and operational information and make sound decisions
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, including influencing at senior level
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer name
NHS Blood and Transplant
Address
NHSBT
Bristol Filton Blood Centre
500 North Bristol Park, Northway, Filton,
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