Chris Butcher,Oxford Brookes alumnus,
BSc Human Biology,

Facility Manager, Evotec UK Ltd, Milton Park, Abingdon

What do you do on a day to do basis?

I work for a drug discovery & medical research company. I am responsible for the facility management of two buildings occupied by 240 employees, mostly laboratory based, with associated support staff. Apart from ensuring the facility runs smoothly I also manage the cleaning and catering contracts.

What are the most exciting and the most boring things about your job?

Ensuring that all employees are able to carry out their jobs, troubleshooting and advising.  Dealing with outside contracts is the most boring.

How did you end up in this role?

I graduated in1983 and moved straight into medical research, starting off in physiology and then moving into cancer research at Oxford University. I have 27 years laboratory experience in a research environment in both academic and industrial locations for UK and European companies. Without a PhD I realised that career progression would be limited so I moved into lab management and clinical trial logistics and drug supply.

How did you decide this was the career for you?

I followed a career in scientific research as at the time I enjoyed doing that the most. All other decisions just happened and there was no real light bulb moment, except realising that continuing in research for me was going to be restrictive. I was offered the opportunity to move into lab management within a new company, still in the medical research field, which I accepted.

What qualifications, training and skills do you need?

I have a degree in Human Biology, but most of my job is very much experience driven, so I hold no other formal qualification. You will need a science degree of some description unless you are looking for a support staff role. Having said that, often even accountants have a life science degree in my industry as it gives them a good overall understanding. Experience is everything, but good people skills are also essential.

How can gradates improve their employability?

Get as much work experience as you can in different areas and don’t restrict yourself with a narrow view of your career options. Many of your skills can be used in many different areas. Work experience counts for a lot and is crucial in getting your first job and progressing. You could try to get vacation work temping for a life science company.

What other top tips do you have?

Ensure you are aware of what the job entails, and if it is a small company investigate their financial background. Research the career structure, opportunities and training that the organisation offers. Be flexible as job security is not a given, especially in the current economic climate.


 

 

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