Job Description
Role: Technical Lead – FootwearLocation: Kettering, NorthamptonshireHours: 37.5 hours per weekSalary: Up to £42,000 per annumAbout the RoleAn excellent opportunity has arisen for a Technical Lead – Footwear to join a leading testing and technical services organisation based in Kettering.You will lead and supervise a team of technologists and technicians within the Footwear Testing team, ensuring compliance with quality standards while maintaining high levels of customer service and technical excellence.This is a key leadership role focused on team development, operational delivery, and continuous improvement within a fast-paced technical environment.Key ResponsibilitiesDaily supervision of Technicians and TechnologistsTeam performance management including appraisals, disciplinary and grievance processesManaging workflow across the department with a strong customer focusAllocating work and agreeing deadlines with team membersEnsuring effective implementation of quality systems alongside relevant internal stakeholdersDeveloping and delivering staff training plansDriving continuous improvement initiatives across systems and individualsMonitoring departmental KPIs and performance metricsLiaising with customers regarding results and new work opportunitiesDrafting and issuing technical reports and responding to customer enquiriesDelivering presentations, customer meetings, and technical seminarsWriting technical articles for internal and external publicationOverseas travel when requiredAbout YouEssentialEducated to A Level in Maths or ScienceExperience of physical testing techniquesProven supervisory or team leadership experienceStrong organisation and planning skillsCustomer-facing experience with confidence presentingExcellent time management and scheduling abilityStrong IT skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Ability to work independently and as part of a teamHighly motivated with strong problem-solving and logical thinking skillsWillingness to travel internationallyDesirableSAFT course completed or working towards completionDegree in Maths or ScienceExperience in a commercial testing or laboratory environmentFull clean driving licenceExposure to sales, marketing or business development toolsFootwear industry experienceBenefits Include25–30 days annual leave (depending on service)Life assuranceGroup personal pension schemeIncome protectionFree parkingFlexible working hoursKey DatesClosing date: Friday 29th May 2026Interview date: Thursday 11th June 2026 (on site, Kettering)INDKTTTPBN1_UKTJ