Section Head in Ely

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. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Section Head to play a key leadership role within our laboratory operations. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, scientific environment and enjoys leading teams to deliver high-quality results, on time and to exacting standards. Working closely with the Laboratory Manager, you will help drive technical excellence, operational efficiency, and a strong quality and safety culture across the laboratory. You’ll be a visible leader, a trusted technical expert, and a key contributor to continuous improvement and client satisfaction.

Days Per Week: Monday to Friday

Contract: Full Time and Permanent

Closing Date: Monday 16th February 2026

The Day to Day

• Lead, organise, and motivate the laboratory team to ensure samples are analysed to a high standard within agreed turnaround times.
• Support the Laboratory Manager with technical and operational activities, including client communication, method development, validation, audits, and KPI monitoring.
• Review, approve, and authorise analytical results and certificates.
• Ensure compliance with Quality Management Systems, including GMP and ISO/IEC 17025:2017, IQC, IRM, QA regimes, and EQA schedules.
• Ensure sufficient availability of media, reagents, chemicals, and consumables to support routine testing.
• Identify training needs, deliver technical training, and maintain accurate training records for all laboratory staff.
• Support recruitment, inductions, holiday planning, absence management, and resourcing of the laboratory team.
• Ensure sample registration reviews are completed and client requirements are fully understood prior to testing.
• Maintain full traceability of testing activities, including personnel and equipment used.
• Promote and enforce Health & Safety compliance, including PPE, COSHH, risk assessments, incident reporting, and safe working practices.
• Maintain laboratory facilities, equipment, and housekeeping standards.
• Support internal, client, and accreditation audits and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Build strong working relationships across the site, sharing best practice and driving continuous improvement.

The Essentials

• Proven leadership ability with the capability to motivate, influence, and develop teams.
• Minimum of 3+ years’ leadership experience in a project, operations, or client-facing management role.
• Previous experience in a pharmaceutical, GMP, or contract laboratory environment preferred.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload and work on own initiative.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong presentation ability.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with high attention to detail.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Commercially aware with a strong client-focused mindset.
• Flexible, proactive, and improvement-driven approach.
• Structured, responsible, and safety-conscious, with a commitment to developing a positive safety culture.
• Strong understanding of GMP and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 principles and requirements.

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 online and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.