At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in a cutting-edge environmental laboratory, driving innovation and performance.
- Company: Join ALS, a global leader in scientific testing dedicated to building a healthier future.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25+ days of annual leave, enhanced sick pay, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to making a difference and fostering inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping a positive workplace culture and delivering excellent client results.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing high-volume operations and a passion for people development.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.
When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.
- Business Unit Manager – Coventry Environmental Laboratory
- Overview
We are seeking an inspiring and commercially minded Business Unit Manager to lead our Coventry Environmental laboratory and more than 400 colleagues as part of the UK and Ireland Senior Management Team.
This is an opportunity for an energetic, people-focused leader who can improve engagement, develop capability and create a culture where people want to stay and grow.
You will combine strategic thinking with a hands-on approach - addressing issues early, empowering experienced technical teams and driving innovation, performance and excellent client service.
You will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the laboratory, delivering improvements across safety, quality, efficiency, customer service and financial performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and inspire the day-to-day operations of the Coventry laboratory, ensuring timely, accurate and high-quality delivery of results.
- Set a clear direction for the site, creating an engaged, accountable and high-performing culture.
- Build trust and engagement at all levels, ensuring colleagues feel valued, heard and supported to succeed.
- Develop and empower leaders and teams, supporting capability building, succession planning and career progression.
- Motivate teams through change, encouraging ownership, proactive problem-solving and early resolution of operational issues.
- Drive continuous improvement across health and safety, quality, customer service, productivity, capacity and cost.
- Deliver operational KPIs, service levels, customer commitments, revenue and profit targets through effective resource and budget management.
- Work collaboratively with other sites and functions to improve sample flow, turnaround times and the overall customer experience.
- Champion innovation and investment, including automation, robotics, digital tools, AI and strategic CAPEX projects.
- Partner with technical, quality, Sales and Customer Services teams to develop laboratory capability, maintain compliance and meet evolving business and client needs.
About You
You will be a visible, approachable and energising leader who is passionate about helping people and businesses perform at their best.
You will be comfortable leading through others, creating clarity in complex situations and turning strategy into practical action.
You will bring
- Inspire and engage teams to deliver excellent performance and customer outcomes.
- Build strong relationships and influence at all levels.
- Develop people, strengthen leadership capability and support career progression.
- Take ownership, make confident decisions and solve problems before they escalate.
- Balance commercial priorities with operational performance and continuous improvement.
- Communicate clearly and bring people with you through change.
- Embrace innovation and find smarter, more effective ways of working.
- Stay resilient, positive and practical in a fast-paced environment.
Experience and Qualifications
The following experience would be valuable
- Experience of managing a laboratory, production, manufacturing, logistics, technical services or similarly high-volume operational environment.
- Experience of working within a regulated or quality-led organisation.
- Familiarity with laboratory logistics, sample registration, transport or supply chain processes.
- Knowledge of ISO 17025, ISO 45001 or ISO 14001 systems.
- A degree, HNC, HND or equivalent qualification in a relevant scientific, technical, operational or business discipline.
- Experience of leading continuous improvement, automation, digital transformation or operational change.
However, we recognise that no one person will have every technical skill.
Coventry has experienced technical, quality and operational teams who will provide the specialist knowledge and support required.
We are particularly interested in candidates who can bring the leadership, energy, curiosity and people focus needed to unlock the potential of the site and make a lasting difference.
The Impact You Will Make
This is an opportunity to shape the performance and culture of a major Environmental laboratory.
You will help create a workplace where people are engaged, supported and proud of what they do - while delivering excellent results for our clients and contributing to the continued growth and success of the business.
Our Benefits Include
- Annual Leave commencing at 25 days (rising to 30) plus 8 public holidays (pro rata for part time)
- Ability to Buy annual leave.
- Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme
- Salary Progression Scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies.
- ‘Celebrating Success’ Recognition Awards
- Perkbox membership providing access to discount vouchers and wellness hub.
- Learning/study support
- Group Personal Pension Plan
- Car Parking on-site
- Working at ALS
The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.
Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence.
At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential.
We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us.
We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.
Everyone Matters
ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.
ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.
Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.
How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.
Business Unit Leader in Coventry employer: ALS Global
At ALS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Prescot. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive training programmes and diverse career opportunities, all while ensuring a safe and rewarding workplace. With attractive benefits such as a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and a strong focus on work-life balance, joining our team means becoming part of a community dedicated to making a positive impact through scientific excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Unit Leader in Coventry
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Business Unit Leader at ALS Global!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like ALS Global or be willing to refer you for that Business Unit Leader position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from ALS Global who’s on the lookout for their next Business Unit Leader star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Business Unit Leader role at ALS Global!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Unit Leader in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at ALS Global. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at ALS Global
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at ALS Global. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
