Reporting to the President and CEO, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) is the senior executive responsible for securing the functionality of business to drive extensive and sustainable growth. The COO will manage Southern Research’s daily preclinical drug discovery and business development operations, working closely with department heads and supervisors to support the day-to-day activity of employees. The primary duties of the COO are to (a) adjust and align the products and services SR is offering to market need; (b) re-design the organizational chart to optimize for commercial pace and delivery; and (c) bring in business (via contracts and long-term strategic partnerships); (d) lead an efficient, self-sustaining pre-clinical drug discovery and development business; and (e)attract, develop, and empower talent and subject matter experts to propel the business forward.

Cultivating human connection – putting people first. We know that every individual makes a difference and that no one can do it alone. We believe the world’s most powerful resource is human potential. We are an inclusive and courageous team where innovation and diversity of though go hand in hand. We understand that relationships move at the speed of trust.

Operating with precise execution – measuring what matters and owning results as a team. We leverage data to drive decisions that advance science. We recognize the importance of a stable foundation coupled with an agile mindset. We hold ourselves accountable and take pride in our work. We give and receive candid feedback as a gift that keeps us growing.

Harnessing relentless curiosity – our unstoppable, innovative force. We are driven to ask sharp questions and push the boundaries of knowledge. We use creativity and critical thinking as catalysts for finding solutions that change lives. We learn by doing, consistently striving to improve our relationships, training, methodologies, questions and results.

Stewarding a healthy community – implementing sustainable operations for a safe, engaging environment. We don’t compromise on safety and health for our employees, customers or community. We believe a healthy community begins with inclusive economic opportunities. We respect the dignity of the patients we ultimately serve. We are motivated to serve communities that are underserved and markets that are overlooked.

Strategic Vision and Leadership – Establishes multi-year business division vision. Participates with other senior leaders to develop the overall organization mission, vision, and strategic plan. Committed to leadership excellence and models leadership competencies.

Strategic Decision Making - Obtains information and identifies key issues relevant to achieving a long-range goal; commits to a course of action to accomplish goal after developing alternatives based on logical assumptions, facts, constraints & resources.

Strategic Relationship Building - Uses appropriate interpersonal skills to work effectively with others to meet mutual goals and objectives; understands the role & interrelationships of each organizational function. Possess skills in managing across functional and organizational lines.

Operational & Technical Excellence - Ensures that work products enable the organization to meet or exceed our customer’s expectations.

Communications - Expresses thoughts and ideas effectively in individual and group situations; adjusts language to the needs of the audience.

Goal Setting - Establishes stretch goals and manages to focused outcomes. Demands excellence. Demonstrates a strong commitment to organizational success; works to do what is best for all stakeholders.

Change Leadership - Encourages others to seek opportunities for different and innovative approaches to addressing problems and opportunities; facilitates the implementation and acceptance of change within the workplace.

Team Building - Creates a climate of teamwork to achieve objectives, taking advantage of our diversity; creates a sense of ownership and encourages individuals to stretch beyond their own capabilities.

Coaching and Development - Selects for talent. Sets expectations and provides clear and timely feedback. Motivates, develops self and others to foster a learning environment and openly shares information that would guide others. Uses appropriate interpersonal style to guide direct reports to action. Selects for talent, sets expectations, provides clear feedback, motivates, develops self and others; fosters a learning environment; recognizes performance success.

Business Knowledge - Maintains external awareness of business sectors; applies knowledge of Institute’s culture, business processes and tools to achieve goals.

This position is required to work in an office setting using a computer for extended periods of time. Personal involvement and exposure, including travel, to other locations is required. This position may also include entry to laboratory or workspace areas that will require use of appropriate PPE.

None required