Overview
We are seeking a Laboratory Manager / Operations Manager to lead operations within a high-throughput environmental testing laboratory based in Newmarket, near Cambridge, UK.
This is a leadership role within a regulated scientific testing environment, responsible for driving operational performance, maintaining high-quality standards, and leading laboratory teams through a period of ongoing improvement and development.
The role may be appointed at either Lab Manager or Operations Manager level, depending on experience and scope of responsibility, with oversight ranging from a single department to multiple laboratory functions.
About the Laboratory
The laboratory provides a broad range of environmental analytical testing services, including:
- Soil analysis
- Water testing
- Air quality monitoring
- Asbestos testing
- Pesticide and contaminant analysis
Operations are structured across three core functional areas:
- Organic chemistry testing
- Inorganic chemistry testing
- Sample reception, preparation, and registration
The site operates in a high-volume, regulated environment, requiring strong operational discipline, quality assurance, and effective team coordination.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Provide strong, visible leadership across laboratory operations
- Oversee day-to-day performance of one or more laboratory functions
- Ensure efficient workflow across sample intake, processing, analysis, and reporting
- Drive improvements in turnaround time, productivity, and service delivery
People Management
- Lead and develop laboratory teams (ranging from ~20 to 60 staff depending on seniority)
- Foster a high-performance, engaged, and accountable team culture
- Ensure effective workforce planning, supervision, and communication
- Act as a visible presence on site, supporting and motivating teams
Quality & Compliance
- Maintain compliance with relevant regulatory and accreditation standards (e.g., ISO 17025 or equivalent frameworks)
- Ensure robust quality systems are followed and continuously improved
- Support audit readiness and continuous improvement initiatives
- Promote a strong culture of quality and technical integrity
Operational Improvement
- Identify and implement process improvements across laboratory operations
- Support turnaround and stabilisation initiatives where required
- Work closely with technical and operational stakeholders to resolve bottlenecks
Candidate Profile
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience in a laboratory operations or laboratory management role
- Minimum 4–5 years of team management experience
- Experience managing and developing operational teams in a laboratory or regulated environment
- Strong understanding of quality systems and their impact on business performance
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams in a hands-on, operational setting
Desirable Requirements
- Experience working within ISO 17025-accredited environments
- Background in chemistry, environmental science, or related scientific discipline
- Experience managing multiple laboratory functions or departments
- Exposure to high-throughput, production-style laboratory environments
Leadership & Behavioural Requirements
- Strong on-site leadership presence with a visible management style
- Ability to motivate and engage teams, particularly in a turnaround or improvement environment
- Hands-on operational mindset with a focus on delivery and results
- Comfortable managing complexity across multiple functions and priorities
- Strong communication skills with the ability to influence across teams
Role Structure & Seniority Levels
This position may be appointed at different levels depending on experience:
Lab Manager Level
- Typically responsible for a single function or team (~5–20 staff)
- Focus on operational delivery, quality, and team management
Operations Manager Level
- Broader responsibility across multiple laboratory functions
- Oversight of larger teams (approx. 40–60 staff)
- Greater accountability for performance, improvement, and cross-functional coordination
Location & Working Pattern
- Based in Newmarket, near Cambridge, UK
- Fully site-based role
- No meaningful remote working available due to operational requirements
Package
- Lab Manager Level: £52,000 – £60,000 base salary
- Operations Manager Level: £65,000 – £75,000 base salary
Additional benefits:
- Bonus may be available for Operations Manager-level candidates
- Additional benefits package in line with standard company policy
Additional Context
The laboratory has undergone significant change following acquisition and is currently in a phase of operational stabilisation and improvement. As such, this role requires a leader who is comfortable working in a dynamic environment, with a strong focus on execution, team engagement, and continuous improvement.
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