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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the QC Lab, ensuring product safety and compliance with regulations.
- Company: Join a fast-growing cosmetics brand focused on science and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a real impact in skincare.
- Qualifications: Degree in Chemistry or related field; 5 years in QC, 2 in management.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with cross-functional collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Hampshire, United Kingdom
Industry: Cosmetics & Skincare
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
About the Company
We are an innovative and fast-growing cosmetics and skincare company based in Hampshire, committed to delivering high-quality, ethically formulated products. Our brand is built on science, sustainability, and a passion for skincare that delivers real results. As we continue to expand, we are looking for a skilled and experienced QC Lab Manager to lead our quality control operations and ensure the safety, efficacy, and consistency of our product range.
Role Overview
The QC Lab Manager will be responsible for overseeing the Quality Control Laboratory, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, managing laboratory staff, and driving continuous improvement across testing protocols and product release processes. This is a key leadership role reporting directly to the Head of Quality or Technical Director.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the daily operations of the QC Laboratory, including planning, scheduling, and workflow management.
- Oversee physical, chemical, and microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
- Ensure all testing complies with regulatory requirements (e.g. UK/EU Cosmetics Regulation, ISO standards, GMP).
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all lab activities, including Certificates of Analysis (CoAs), test reports, and non-conformance records.
- Implement and monitor laboratory quality systems, including calibration, equipment maintenance, and environmental controls.
- Recruit, train, and manage QC laboratory staff; provide performance feedback and promote professional development.
- Investigate out-of-specification results and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
- Support new product development with stability testing and compatibility studies.
- Work cross-functionally with R&D, Regulatory, Production, and Supply Chain teams.
- Lead internal audits and support external inspections and certifications.
- Drive continuous improvement in QC processes, methods, and technologies.
Requirements
- Degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
- Minimum of 5 years' experience in a QC role within the cosmetics, skincare, or pharmaceutical industry, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management position.
- Strong knowledge of cosmetic product testing requirements (microbiological, physical, chemical).
- Familiarity with UK/EU Cosmetics Regulation, GMP, ISO 22716, and relevant quality standards.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Proven ability to manage a high-performing lab team in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in using laboratory software and equipment.
Quality Control Lab Manager employer: SEC Life Sciences
Contact Detail:
SEC Life Sciences Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Control Lab Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK/EU Cosmetics Regulations and ISO standards. Being well-versed in these regulations will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance and quality in the cosmetics industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the cosmetics and skincare industry, especially those in quality control roles. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and challenges in quality management.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement in previous roles. Highlighting your experience with corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) will show that you can effectively manage quality issues and enhance lab operations.
✨Tip Number 4
Research our company’s values and product range thoroughly. Understanding our commitment to sustainability and ethical formulation will allow you to align your answers with our mission during the interview, making you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Control Lab Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in quality control, particularly within the cosmetics or skincare industry. Emphasise your leadership roles and any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage a lab effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for skincare and your understanding of regulatory standards. Mention specific experiences that align with the responsibilities of the QC Lab Manager role, such as managing laboratory staff or implementing quality systems.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: In your application, clearly state your degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or a related field. Include any certifications or training related to quality control, GMP, or ISO standards that would make you a strong candidate for this position.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in previous roles. Discuss your approach to training and developing staff, as well as any initiatives you've implemented to improve lab processes or product quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at SEC Life Sciences
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarise yourself with UK/EU Cosmetics Regulation, GMP, and ISO standards. Be prepared to discuss how you have ensured compliance in your previous roles, as this will demonstrate your expertise and understanding of the industry.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a QC Lab Manager, you'll need strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, provided feedback, and promoted professional development in your past positions.
✨Discuss Continuous Improvement
Be ready to talk about specific instances where you've driven continuous improvement in QC processes or methods. Highlight any innovative solutions you've implemented that enhanced product quality or lab efficiency.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to physical, chemical, and microbiological testing. Brush up on your knowledge of testing protocols and be ready to explain how you've handled out-of-specification results in the past.
