Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG) in Exeter
Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG)

Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG) in Exeter

Exeter Full-Time 60000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and develop high-performing laboratory teams while driving strategic growth.
  • Company: Join a leading Veterinary Pathology Group with a focus on innovation and quality.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, life assurance, and a dog-friendly office.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional development and career progression.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in veterinary diagnostics and shape the future of the industry.
  • Qualifications: Masters degree in Life Science and experience in veterinary diagnostics required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 65000 £ per year.

Location: On site at our Exeter laboratory, UK with frequent travel to Ringwood and other sites as required.

Job type: Permanent / Full-time; 40 hours a week.

Annual Salary Range: from £60,000.00 to £65,000.00.

The Role

As Regional Head of Laboratories, you will play a key role in the leadership team, helping shape and deliver the VPG strategy while leading and developing high‑performing laboratory teams across the region.

Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership across regional laboratories, ensuring delivery against financial, quality and performance targets.
  • Drive sustainable growth in line with group strategy, leading complex projects and change initiatives while maintaining high staff engagement.
  • Oversee laboratory quality, QA/QC and reporting turnaround times, ensure full compliance with health, safety and quality policies, and manage resources effectively.
  • Build strong client relationships, address issues professionally, and represent the business at industry events.
  • Recruit, develop and appraise staff, supporting succession planning and collaboration across the wider VPG network.

Benefits

  • Life Assurance
  • Discount platform (supermarkets, high street, cinema & travel)
  • 25 days annual leave (28 days after 3 years of service)
  • Enhanced absences (sickness and parental)
  • Learning & Development opportunities
  • Dog friendly offices

Knowledge, Skills and Responsibilities

Essential

  • Masters Degree or equivalent qualification or experience (preferably in a Life Science)
  • Experience in veterinary Biochemistry and Haematology analysis
  • Significant experience managing or supervising a veterinary diagnostic laboratory
  • Excellent IT skills, familiar with Microsoft office and LIMS systems
  • Experience in leading, developing and delivering a change programme whilst improving employee engagement
  • Experience in client‑facing meetings and presentations with excellent negotiation and influencing skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with a variety of stakeholders and employees at all levels
  • Excellent prioritising, time management and organisational skills
  • Clean driving licence

Desirable

  • Extensive knowledge of the Veterinary community and client base
  • Highly motivated and target driven with a proven track record in business development and management

Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG) in Exeter employer: British Society of Veterinary Pathology

As a leading employer in the veterinary pathology sector, VPG offers a dynamic work environment at our Exeter laboratory, where you will have the opportunity to lead high-performing teams and drive strategic initiatives. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits including enhanced leave and a dog-friendly office, VPG fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in veterinary diagnostics.
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Contact Detail:

British Society of Veterinary Pathology Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG) in Exeter

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events or online. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. We want you to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in leading high-performing teams and driving growth.

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your achievements in veterinary diagnostics and how you’ve successfully managed change initiatives. Confidence is key when showcasing your skills.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.

We think you need these skills to ace Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG) in Exeter

Strategic Leadership
Operational Leadership
Financial Management
Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC)
Project Management
Change Management
Client Relationship Management
Staff Recruitment and Development
Veterinary Biochemistry
Haematology Analysis
IT Skills
Microsoft Office
Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
Negotiation Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Time Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant qualifications, especially in veterinary diagnostics, to show us you're the right fit for the Regional Head of Laboratories role.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about veterinary pathology and how your background aligns with our goals at VPG. Be sure to mention specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.

Showcase Your Soft Skills: We value interpersonal skills just as much as technical expertise. In your application, give examples of how you've successfully communicated with stakeholders or led teams through change. This will help us see how you can build strong client relationships and engage staff effectively.

Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and keep track of your application. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining the VPG team!

How to prepare for a job interview at British Society of Veterinary Pathology

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your veterinary biochemistry and haematology knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific cases or experiences that highlight your expertise in these areas, as this will show your depth of understanding and passion for the field.

Show Leadership Skills

As a Regional Head of Laboratories, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed change initiatives in the past. Highlight your ability to engage staff and drive performance.

Client Relationships Matter

Be prepared to talk about your experience in building strong client relationships. Think of instances where you've addressed client issues or represented your previous company at industry events. This will showcase your interpersonal skills and professionalism.

Get Familiar with the Company

Research the Veterinary Pathology Group and understand their strategy and values. Knowing their goals will help you align your answers during the interview and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their success.

Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG) in Exeter
British Society of Veterinary Pathology
Location: Exeter

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