Administration & Project Support Director

The European Spallation Source (ESS) in Lund, Sweden, invites applications for an Administration & Project Support Director.

Description of position
The Administration & Project Support Director reports to the Director General and leads the planning and implementation of the Directorate's scope of responsibilities. This includes the supply of administrative and financial services in an international environment and in accordance with established policies and procedures.  The ESS organization will transition during 2015 into a European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC).  The Director will ensure that ESS administrative and financial operations comply with the ERIC statutory requirements approved by the European Commission.   

The Director has the overall responsibility for the development and performance of the six administrative divisions; Legal; Procurement, Logistics & Supply; Finance & Project Support; Human Resources; General Services; and, Information Technologies. He/she provides leadership and professional direction to the staff within the Administration & Project Support Directorate.

The Director for Administration & Project Support is an experienced leader, proving strategic direction and inspiring the implementation of solutions and best practices that address ESS's priorities. The Director provides advice to the General Director on matters relating to administration, finance and compliance and is expected to act on behalf of the Director General in his absence.

Main responsibilities
The Director for Administration & Project Support, together with the Technical and Science Directors, is one of three Directors that report to the Director General and is a member of the ESS Executive Management Team.  He/she will be responsible for performance goals, scope, cost, schedule, and deliverables of the Administration & Project Support Directorate and, together with the Director General and the other members of the management team, for the entire ESS.

Duties will include, but not be restricted to:


• Lead and manage the Administration & Project Support Directorate with a team of senior managers with operational and strategic responsibilities.
• Develop and implement ESS planning, finance and budgeting system.
• Implement internal control functions to ensure appropriate use of ESS funds.
• Support the process for securing in-kind contributions from ESS members.
• Direct the operational aspects within the Directorate to support the ESS Construction Project.
• Ensure that the Directorate achieves its objectives and complies with all relevant regulations and laws.
• Contribute to the development of policies in compliance with overall objectives, strategies and plans.
• Lead and support the work of the Administration & Financial Committee (AFC) on behalf of the CEO.
• Represent the Directorate at the Steering Committee (STC) and other governing bodies.
• Represent the Directorate to external bodies within the ESS Member States (including host states Sweden and Denmark) and the European Commission.
• Contribute to high-level international negotiations, agreements, and contracts relevant to the Directorate.
• Prepare and ensure the readiness of the Directorate and its six administrative divisions to transition into the operations phase.

Qualifications
This position requires an advanced (MS or MBA) Degree or equivalent, formal project management training and/or experience, plus at least 10 years experience with a minimum of 5 years in a management position. The successful candidate has a substantial knowledge of large projects in an international context, and knowledge of principles and practices of scientific research laboratories is an advantage. European experience working in collaboration with partner institutions to realize in-kind deliverables is highly desirable, as well as demonstrated and documented financial awareness and ability to add value through creative solutions to complex problems in complicated contexts. Seeking opportunities for organisational improvement and working strategically to realize organisational goals is also a key success factor.

The position requires a leader with interpersonal skills who makes distinct and prompt decisions, initiates and generates activity and takes responsibility for actions, projects and people. The ability to provide others with a clear direction, delegate work appropriately, empower others and uphold ethics and values will also be of great importance. For the Administration & Project Support Director as for all leaders at ESS, success achieved through enabling the success of others.

What ESS Offers
At ESS we offer people with talent and passion a rare opportunity to be involved in the development and building of a world-leading facility for materials research. Besides attractive employment and relocation conditions, ESS provides a unique opportunity to influence the future of science and technology. You will also enjoy being part of an organisational culture that promotes and embrace collaboration, openness and sustainability.

Application & Contact
Please provide your CV and covering letter in English by clicking on “apply” and following the instructions. Last application date is 15th April 2015. Please note we only accept applications via the ESS website. In this recruitment we work together with Amrop. For questions and more information about the position please contact Marie Högstedt at +46 40 104625