Head of Human Biological Samples Strategy and Governance

Company Description

From global research discoveries to clinical breakthroughs – our vision is to become the most influential life sciences company for researchers. If you are motivated by making a real impact to people’s life and have a desire to work in a passionate and diverse community, Abcam is the place for you.

Our culture is driven by our dedicated, agile and audacious community of professionals who are driven by a combined purpose and sense of belonging. We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as one of the top 5 best places to work in the UK for two years running, as per Glassdoor’s Employees’ Choice Award.

Job Description

HBS are ethically sensitive material, and we ensure we comply with the strict laws and regulations regarding the procurement, use, storage and disposal of such material.

The Head of Human Biological Sample strategy and governance is responsible for defining and managing processes to deliver HBS compliance across Abcam globally. They identify and support establishment of effective HBS compliance procedures and advise the business on requirements including appropriate external sourcing and use of samples.

The Head of HBS strategy and governance will also Chair of the Abcam’s Ethics Committee ensuring that all human and animal material is ethically sourced and use of animals is carefully considered and justified. They are also responsible to support the approval of outsourced animal farms globally to ensure they are compliant with local animal welfare guidelines, and they meet Abcam’s welfare standards.

Accountabilities:

Lead the Identification and establishment of effective HBS compliance procedures across all Abcam sites.

Manage HBS processes to ensure standards are adhered to and compliance requirements are consistently applied

Ensuring senior stakeholders are aware of changing legislation that impacts them

Ensure risks arising from HBS due diligence activities are identified and recorded.

Maintain the documentation/SOPs associated with HBS due diligence activities

Monitor the effectiveness of HBS due diligence processes and identify opportunities for improvement

Implement a robust system that facilitates the traceability of human material, ensuring a robust audit trail

Support approval of HBS suppliers

Support activities to enable access to new HBS sources ensuring Abcam’s compliance with regulation

Support approval of animal material suppliers ensuring compliance with Abcam’s global ethics policy

Support approval and regular audits of outsourced animal farms globally

Qualifications

It is essential that you are able to demonstrate:

Degree level education

Significant experience in pharmaceuticals/biotech industry or academia/hospital environment related to HBS

Excellent analytical, written, and oral communications skills

High ethical standards and willingness to challenge inappropriate proposals/actions of senior leaders

Strong collaborative, partnering, and interpersonal skills

Strong ability to work independently

Willingness to take decisions.

It would be desirable if you were able to demonstrate:

Direct experience of working with HBS in a lab environment

Experience of working with multiple stakeholders

Expertise in relevant global regulations relating to HBS

Knowledge of UK Human Tissue Act (HTA) regulation

Additional Information

We know that when it comes to benefits, no one size fits all. Flexibility and choice matter which is why we offer all kinds of ways to enable you and your loved ones to be well and live well. You can expect;

• A culture focused on well-being and opportunities for growth and development. We provide a wide range of training opportunities, for both professional and personal development.
• The freedom to work in a way that works for you, with a focus on maximising productivity and innovation at work whilst reducing environmental impact.
• A performance-based share plan, inspiring and rewarding our people as we deliver Abcam’s strategy.
• Attractive and flexible benefits package including 18 weeks full paid maternity leave and 6 weeks full paid paternity leave, increased paid time off accrual over time and much more.

We offer a truly inclusive environment where you can bring your whole self to work. This is underpinned by our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and our partnerships with WORK180 (endorsed employer for women) and MyGwork (LGBT+ professional community). All our positions are open as a Job Share, where two talented professionals can share the responsibility of a full time position. You can declare your interest in a job share role within the application form.

Abcam is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to age, national origin, race, ethnicity, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you’re interested in this particular role then we’d love to read your application.

#LI-NG1