Cawood is the largest independent provider of analytical laboratory testing and sampling services for the land‑based industries in the UK, operating 15 sites nationwide.
Job Description
People Leadership
* Lead, coach, and develop a team of 10–20 colleagues to drive high performance and engagement.
* Conduct regular 1:1s, feedback sessions, performance reviews and development planning.
* Manage recruitment, onboarding and ongoing staff training, ensuring training records and competence standards are fully maintained.
* Foster a positive, collaborative culture aligned with our values.
Operational Delivery
* Oversee workflow, resource planning and staff allocation to meet turnaround times.
* Ensure all processes, equipment and documentation meet UKAS and ISO/IEC17025 standards.
* Troubleshoot technical issues and support method development alongside the Technical Team.
* Maintain data integrity, operational efficiency and continuous improvement using EBOS tools.
* Support implementation and effective use of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
* Work closely with Customer Services, Business Development and Technical Services.
* Support client meetings and maintain excellent customer relationships.
* Communicate operational updates clearly and professionally across teams.
Quality, Safety & Compliance
* Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, COSHH, SOPs and accreditation requirements.
* Oversee non‑conforming work investigations and corrective actions.
* Maintain a safe, clean, audit‑ready laboratory environment.
* Act as Fire Marshal, First Aider, Internal Auditor or Key Holder when required.
What You’ll Bring
Essential
* Strong understanding of ISO, UKAS and audit requirements.
* Excellent leadership, communication and coaching skills.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities with strong attention to detail.
* Self‑motivated, collaborative and confident in driving team performance.
* Hands‑on approach with the ability to influence and motivate others.
Desirable
* Experience working in a laboratory environment with operational knowledge.
* Experience within a UKAS‑accredited laboratory.
* Knowledge of food/feed or chemistry‑based laboratory techniques.
Why Join Us?
A key leadership role within a respected and growing organisation, with opportunities to shape team culture, drive operational excellence and benefit from training, development and internal progression.
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