Head of Laboratory

We are currently looking for a Head of Laboratory to join a leading analytical services organisation based in Gloucestershire. Internally the role will be referred to as a Business Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the microbiology department, including service delivery, team leadership, financial management, operational improvement, and client satisfaction.

This is a hybrid role with 2-3 days required on-site per week.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

As the Head of Laboratory your responsibilities will include:

• Operational & Strategic Leadership: Manage departmental operations to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery of microbiological services to food and beverage clients. Translate strategic business objectives into actionable operational plans that drive efficiency and service excellence.

• Team & Performance Management: Lead a department of approximately 50 staff, including 6 direct reports (Section Managers). Drive team performance through coaching, training, and structured development plans.

• Client & Commercial Engagement: Act as a senior contact for key clients, ensuring that service levels are met or exceeded. Collaborate with commercial teams to support sales pipelines and identify new revenue opportunities within the microbiology service area.

• Financial & Resource Management: Take full accountability for the department’s financial performance, including budget setting, cost control, and revenue delivery. Oversee capital investment proposals, resource allocation, and lab efficiency improvements.

• Quality, Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Promote a quality-first culture, ensuring accurate, timely, and repeatable microbiological analysis. Lead initiatives to improve lab processes, reduce waste, and introduce new capabilities aligned to market needs.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS:

To be successful in your application for this Head of Laboratory position, you will need:

• A degree in a relevant scientific discipline, experience managing scientific teams and laboratory operations within a microbiology or analytical services environment.

• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and inspire multi-disciplinary teams in a technical environment. Broad knowledge of the analytical requirements, particularly within the food, beverage, or pharmaceutical sectors.

• Experience in client management, commercial delivery and managing large budgets within laboratory operations.