Are you an experienced Analytical Lab Manager who thrives on developing people, driving accuracy, and owning the performance of a high-impact laboratory?
Do you enjoy creating structure, supporting chemists to grow, and making sure every sample, test and result meets the highest standard?

If so, this is a brilliant opportunity to lead a modern analytical laboratory at the forefront of material science, food-contact safety and sustainable innovation.

The Role

As Analytical Lab Manager, you'll take full responsibility for the technical, operational and quality performance of the analytical laboratory - from sample receipt all the way to results approval. You'll build a high-performing team, optimise lab workflow, and ensure turnaround times, accuracy and compliance targets are consistently met.

You'll be the go-to expert for analytical chemistry, troubleshooting and data integrity, supporting production and quality teams with investigations, non-conformances and customer issues.
This role also plays a key part in exciting R&D projects, including research into recycled materials for food-use applications.

Key Responsibilities

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Lead, mentor and develop a team of analytical chemists, building capability and maintaining high performance.

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Manage day-to-day lab operations to ensure efficiency, accuracy and fast turnaround times.

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Oversee analytical testing processes, troubleshooting where required.

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Plan and control daily activities including sample analysis, sample retention, workflow management and standards management.

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Support quality, production and customer complaint investigations with analytical expertise.

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Contribute to innovative research on recycled materials and food-contact safety.

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Ensure compliance with key site, regulatory and global programmes.

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Provide ongoing coaching, training, and development for the lab team.

About You - What We're Looking For

Must Haves

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Proven experience as an Analytical Lab Manager.

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Master's degree in analytical chemistry, biology or a related field.

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8+ years' experience in a chemistry lab environment.

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Minimum 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.

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Strong track record of managing and developing analytical chemists.

Desirable

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PhD in a related field.

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Background in polymer chemistry (ideally polypropylene).

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Experience in polymers/plastics manufacturing or regulated labs.

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Experience with UKAS audits and corrective actions.

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Hands-on GC-MS expertise.

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Knowledge of food contact regulations, specific migration, toxicology, and compliance testing.

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Understanding of lab automation practices.

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Valid UK driving licence.

Skills & Personal Qualities

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Strong knowledge of analytical techniques, especially GC-MS.

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Skilled in LIMS, Microsoft Office and lab compliance frameworks.

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Excellent interpersonal, decision-making and leadership ability.

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Organised, proactive, self-motivated and calm under pressure.

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Collaborative team player with a positive, professional attitude.

Why Apply?

This is a fantastic opportunity for a chemistry professional who loves managing people, shaping a lab culture, and influencing both day-to-day operations and long-term scientific innovation. You'll have the autonomy to build the lab your way, grow your team, and make a measurable impact across the site.

If you're a driven Analytical Lab Manager who enjoys leading teams and working in a fast-paced, highly technical environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now or contact us for a confidential chat