Your job

As the Director of Operations, you will play a key role in shaping an organization that addresses global challenges in sustainable food production, animal welfare, and biodiversity. You will collaborate closely with the Managing Director to lead the Animal Sciences Group (ASG) at Wageningen University & Research.

The Role

In this position, you will be responsible for the integrated management of ASG. Together with the Managing Director, you will form the executive team and act as a strategic partner to institute managers, chair holders, and stakeholders both within and outside WUR. Your focus will be on ensuring that operations are future-proof and that processes, systems, people, and resources contribute to high-quality research, education, and societal impact.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial management, including planning, budgeting, and risk management.
• Lead HR and organizational development initiatives, focusing on leadership and team capabilities.
• Ensure effective governance and decision-making processes, including compliance and organizational structure.
• Optimize processes and systems related to facilities and support.
• Foster strategic collaborations within WUR and with external partners.
• Manage change and professionalization programs within a complex knowledge environment.

About the Company

The Animal Sciences Group (ASG) plays a vital role in addressing pressing global challenges through high-quality research and education in animal sciences. Comprising 12 university chair groups and 3 research institutes, ASG includes the Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, and Wageningen Marine Research. Together, we work towards solutions for sustainable food systems, animal welfare, and ecosystem health.

Your Qualities

You are an inspiring and decisive leader who connects strategy with execution. You possess:

• An academic level of working and thinking.
• Experience as a senior manager or director in a complex knowledge-based organization.
• Expertise in integrated operations, finance, and organizational development.
• Proven capabilities in change management and stakeholder management.
• A leadership style that fosters connection and strong communication skills.
• An affinity for science, education, and societal transitions.
• An international perspective and strong governance sensitivity.

Fluency in English at a C2 level is required for this role, and support for language development is available through our language center.

What We Offer

Wageningen University & Research provides excellent employment conditions, including:

• Flexible working hours to promote work-life balance.
• Sabbatical leave, study leave, and partially paid parental leave.
• Access to campus sports facilities for a small fee.
• A fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• A competitive gross salary ranging from €7,914 to €10,792 for a full-time position, depending on experience.
• An initial one-year contract with the possibility of renewal based on performance and financial situation.

We support development and internal mobility within our organization. If you have solid professional experience, we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet all the specified requirements.

Coming from Abroad

WUR welcomes international applications, but immigration restrictions may apply for candidates from outside the EU/EFTA zone. We provide assistance with visa applications and offer a Dual Career group program for partners to help them acclimate to Dutch culture and the labor market.

Important Information

For more information, contact Ernst van den Ende, Managing Director, at ernst.vandenende@wur.nl. For questions about the application process, reach out to Ine van 't Land, Corporate Recruiter, at recruitment.asg@wur.nl.

Ready to Apply?

Click the application button on our website. Applications will be accepted until September 10, 2026, with interviews scheduled for the week of September 21, 2026. Internal candidates are encouraged to apply by August 27, 2026. An assessment may be part of the selection process.

Welcome, Safe, and Valued

Wageningen University & Research values diversity and inclusion, fostering a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated. Together, we build a culture where unique contributions lead to organizational success.

We Are

Wageningen University & Research aims to explore nature's potential to enhance quality of life. With over 7,600 employees and 13,100 students, we are a leading organization in addressing critical questions related to healthy food and living environments. Our integrated approach and collaboration across disciplines define the unique Wageningen approach.