Executive Search

Chief Operating Officer Appointment at Leading Medical Research Institute

Date Posted:4 September 2024
Consultant:Sandra Kerr

Expanding Medical Research: New Chief Operating Officer at Leading Research Institute

Research

The Brief

In May 2022, a prominent medical research institute partnered with Future Leadership to appoint a driven and collaborative leader for the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO).

The institute, known for its world-leading and groundbreaking medical research, sought a COO to support the strategic direction of significant growth, the expansion of the institute to multiple centers, and the attraction of new research groups from across Australia and internationally. The COO was tasked with bringing rigour and best practices to the operational environment while developing external partnerships to further amplify the real-world impact of the institute’s research.

9.19.1

Candidate net Promote Score

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10,000+10,000+

Candidates supported every year

We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.

50.5%50.5%

Senior Women Appointed since 2002

Over half of the executive search assignments undertaken by our team have resulted in the appointment of outstanding female or LGBTQI+ leaders to high profile roles.

98%98%

Candidate Retention Rate for 12 months since 2002

Our thorough briefing process and ability to engage passive candidates mean that we go to great lengths to find the right person for the role – long term!

The Process

Future Leadership conducted a comprehensive briefing with key stakeholders from the institute to gain clarity on the desired skills and experience.

The ideal candidate needed to be a senior leader capable of building strong relationships with researchers and medical partners, while driving collaboration and governance across the institute. Utilising an extensive network of referral partners and a targeted advertising campaign, Future Leadership reached out to approximately 75 potential candidates. Four candidates were presented at longlisting, all progressing to panel interviews.

Emerging Capabilities

01.

Healthcare

Expert in managing and improving healthcare services, ensuring quality care and operational efficiency across health organisations.

02.

Operations Management

Skilled in overseeing all aspects of operations, ensuring processes are optimised for efficiency, productivity, and quality.

03.

Operations Support

Proficient in providing operational support, enabling the seamless execution of day-to-day functions and ensuring the organisation runs smoothly.

04.

Policy Development

Adept at developing and implementing policies that align with organisational goals and comply with regulatory requirements.

05.

Senior Stakeholder Management

Experienced in managing relationships with senior stakeholders, ensuring their interests are aligned with organisational objectives and fostering strong partnerships.

The Outcome

The successful candidate was appointed to the position of Chief Operating Officer and began their role in September 2022.

The individual brought a wealth of experience in senior operations, having worked internationally in complex health environments, along with a strong background in business development and relationship-building across corporate, government, and university settings. Their leadership is expected to drive the expansion and continued excellence of the institute.

Consultant

Sandra Kerr

Associate Partner, Executive Search View Profile
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