Job Introduction Laboratory Manager – Lucion Services (Gateshead) Location: Gateshead, Tyne and Wear Salary: Competitive Excellent Benefits Contract: Full Time, Permanent About Us At Lucion Services, we’re dedicated to making the world a safer place to live and work. As one of the UK’s leading risk management and compliance consultancies, our laboratories play a crucial role in delivering high-quality asbestos testing, environmental analysis, and scientific innovation. We’re now looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to join our Gateshead team and lead a talented group of professionals in driving operational excellence, technical quality, and continuous improvement. The Role As our Laboratory Manager, you’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of our busy analytical laboratories, ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency at every level. You will manage a team of laboratory professionals, uphold UKAS-accredited standards, and lead initiatives to improve performance, customer service, and technical capability. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage a laboratory team of 10 full-time employees, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration. Maintain compliance with ISO 17025, LAB 30, and relevant quality management systems. Oversee all aspects of laboratory performance, including workflow, sample preparation, and analytical procedures. Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results in line with OTD (On Time Delivery) targets and client expectations. Manage laboratory budgets, resources, consumables, and waste disposal. Conduct staff training, authorisations, competency assessments, and performance reviews. Support and lead UKAS audits, accreditation activities, and compliance monitoring. Oversee participation in RICE, AIMS, AISS, SEMS, or equivalent proficiency testing schemes. Develop and implement new analytical methods and drive investment in laboratory capability and innovation. Interpret and report analytical data for internal and external clients. Act as a technical mentor to laboratory and chemistry staff, ensuring robust analytical standards and safety protocols. About You We’re looking for a technically proficient, people-focused leader with a passion for laboratory excellence and continuous improvement. Essential Requirements Minimum 5 years’ professional experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations. Proven leadership experience managing teams of 10 staff. Strong understanding of ISO 17025, LAB 30, or similar quality systems. Demonstrable record of improving customer service and laboratory performance. Experience managing laboratory budgets and resources. Competence in BOHS proficiency modules. Sound knowledge of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Proven experience with UKAS accreditation and audit processes. Desirable RSPH Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management. Experience developing new laboratory methods and implementing new technologies. Why Lucion? Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunity to lead within a UKAS-accredited, market-leading laboratory. Continuous professional development and training opportunities. A positive, inclusive culture built on safety, integrity, and innovation. Apply