Analytical Laboratory Manager in Southampton

This role is located in Marchwood, within the Cawood Scientific Environment Division. Marchwood, part of Cawood, was established in 1998 and performs a range of specialist analytical testing services to customers operating in the Environmental, Industrial and Agricultural Sectors from its three laboratories based in the South and North of England. As a leading UK Dioxin and Furans analysis laboratory and the UK’s leading specialist laboratory for independent occupational hygiene analysis, Marchwood offers a range of services for the environmental, occupational and food/feed sectors.

Are you an experienced analytical laboratory professional looking to take the next step in your leadership career? We are seeking a dynamic Laboratory Manager to lead our Sample Extraction and Analytical teams within our ISO 17025 & MCERTS accredited laboratory, specialising in the analysis of Persistent Organic Pollutants, including Dioxins & Furans. This is a fantastic opportunity for a confident people leader who thrives in a fast‑paced, highly technical environment and is passionate about delivering operational excellence.

As our Laboratory Manager, you will oversee the day‑to‑day performance of approximately ten technicians and analysts, ensuring the smooth running of all extraction and analytical operations. Working closely with Health & Safety, Technical, Quality, Customer Services and wider operational teams, you will ensure that client samples are processed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. You will champion continuous improvement, drive team development, and help shape the future of our laboratory’s capabilities.

• Leadership & People Development
  • Inspire, motivate and lead a high‑performing team through coaching and supportive management.
  • Identify training needs and create development opportunities to enhance team capability.
  • Build a culture of transparency, trust, and empowerment, enabling confident, independent decision‑making.
• Operational Excellence
  • Ensure safe and efficient daily laboratory operations, meeting agreed turnaround times and quality criteria.
  • Troubleshoot technical, instrumental, and methodological issues alongside supporting long‑term improvements.
  • Plan and manage departmental workflow to maximise productivity and efficiency.
  • Support method development, validation and the launch of new analytical services.
• Quality, Safety & Compliance
  • Maintain full compliance with ISO 17025, MCERTS, and internal procedures.
  • Manage chemical and consumable controls and ensure equipment and instrumentation are maintained through effective liaison with engineers and service providers.
  • Lead timely investigations into non‑conformances, implementing corrective and preventative actions.
  • Promote a safe, tidy and high‑quality working environment.
• Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Support meetings with key clients, understanding their requirements and ensuring satisfaction.
  • Work collaboratively with Customer Services and Business Development teams to deliver exceptional service.
  • Communicate regularly with operational leaders, HR, and other stakeholders.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Champion a culture of continuous improvement across processes, standards, and performance metrics.
  • Encourage innovative thinking and cross‑team collaboration to enhance outcomes for colleagues and customers.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Experience within an analytical laboratory environment.
• Proven success leading teams within an ISO 17025 / MCERTS accredited laboratory.
• Strong experience managing and developing technicians and analysts.
• Knowledge or experience with High‑Resolution instruments, GC‑QQQ, LC‑QQQ, or POP analysis (advantageous).
• Experience in identifying, developing and implementing Lean or other operational efficiency processes.

The chance to lead a specialist team at the forefront of environmental and chemical analysis. Career development opportunities, including training such as Fire Marshal, First Aider, Internal Auditor and more. A supportive environment where innovation and professional growth are actively encouraged.

If you are a proactive leader with strong technical expertise and a passion for continuous improvement, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the future of our laboratory operations.