Head of Talent and Organisational Design

Reports to:Head of Talent and Organisational DesignChief People OfficerThis is a

full-time and permanent

position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.We are being supported by Tucker Stone to fill this role, if you wish to apply, please email an application directly to

Mark.The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions.The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. This gives us the freedom to collaborate and carry out high-quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy.The Head of Talent and OD will lead the design and execution of talent, leadership, learning, and culture strategies to ensure the Crick continues to be a world-class place to work and do science. This role will be pivotal in delivering our 2025–2028 People Strategy and in building a future-ready, inclusive, and high-performing institute.As a strategic partner to senior leadership and a champion for our people and culture ambitions, you will develop, embed, and evolve initiatives around leadership capability, succession planning, performance, organisational development, and culture change.

Talent and Succession PlanningLead the design and delivery of talent strategies that build critical pipeline strength across science and operations.Work with HR Business Partners and senior leaders to assess potential, retention risks, and future skill needs.Leadership and Management DevelopmentDefine and implement the Crick Leadership Standards to align expectations, behaviours, and performance.Design and lead development programmes for early-career researchers, operational managers, and senior leaders.Create structured onboarding, coaching, and leadership support across the lifecycle.Support cultural transformation initiatives, focusing on cross-functional collaboration, values, and inclusivity.Learning and PerformanceRefresh performance and development frameworks to align with behavioural and reward strategies.Lead the creation of career pathways and development models that enable transparent progression across all staff groups.Work collaboratively with HRBPs, Talent Acquisition, Reward, and EDI to align priorities and interventions.Use data and insight to inform strategy, measure impact, and drive continuous improvement.Significant senior-level experience in Talent, Organisational Development, or Learning within a complex, multidisciplinary, or research-based organisation.*A strong track record of leading succession planning, leadership development, and organisational capability initiatives that align with long-term strategic goals.*Demonstrated expertise in organisational design, including shaping structure, roles, and culture to support evolving institutional needs.*Proven ability to lead and embed inclusive talent and leadership practices, with a deep understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles.*Skilled in managing cross-functional projects with measurable outcomes, using people data and insights to inform design and evaluate impact.Strong programme management, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills.Experience working in a research, academic, or scientific setting.Understanding of higher education or publicly funded research environments.We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community.

At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. As a Disability Confident Leader, we ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we''ll make reasonable adjustments if you need them.