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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage daily lab operations and support scientific teams in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a leading scientific services provider in the pharmaceutical R&D sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, bonus, and private healthcare.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative culture that values innovation and safety in scientific research.
- Qualifications: Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and experience in lab management required.
- Other info: Opportunity for hands-on leadership and continuous improvement in a regulated environment.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 48000 £ per year.
Job Description
Lab Manager – Scientific Support Services
Location: London, UK
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Industry: Pharmaceutical R&D Support
Salary & Benefits: £40,000 + Pension + Bonus + Private Healthcare
Scope
A leading scientific services provider is seeking a Lab Manager to oversee the on-site delivery of scientific and laboratory support services at a major pharmaceutical R&D facility.
This is a hands-on, multi-disciplinary role responsible for the day-to-day management of scientific operations, including logistics, procurement, sample dispatch, health & safety compliance, and direct support for research scientists. The successful candidate will lead a small team, driving operational excellence, continuous improvement, and stakeholder collaboration across a defined set of laboratories.
Responsibilities:
- Coordinate daily workloads, priorities, and delivery of support across scientific services
- Oversee sample dispatch, procurement logistics, and internal/external shipment coordination
- Maintain accurate and compliant documentation (SOPs, WIs, risk assessments, COSHH)
- Provide first-line support to lab teams and ensure smooth operational coverage
- Lead and support change controls, service escalations, and troubleshooting activities
- Collaborate with internal departments and vendors to ensure effective service and innovation
- Drive health & safety adherence, conduct inspections, and lead monthly Gemba walks
- Create and manage weekly/monthly reports and dashboards (KPI tracking, service metrics)
- Provide data insights for governance reviews and service evaluations
- Conduct root cause analyses (RCA) and lead innovation or lean process projects
- Promote a safety-first culture by logging near misses and unsafe conditions via reporting systems
About You:
- Exceptional attention to detail and strong problem-solving capability
- Outstanding communication skills and a proven customer-focused mindset
- Ability to manage multiple internal and external stakeholders and priorities
- Proficiency in data analysis, reporting, and IT systems (e.g., Excel, dashboards)
- Strong project management and leadership experience
- Knowledge of Good Laboratory Standards and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, ABS tools)
- Extensive experience in laboratory or scientific operations within a regulated or research environment
- Prior experience managing lab-based teams or scientific support staff
- Strong familiarity with SHE (Safety, Health & Environment) policies and compliance
- Hands-on experience leading audits, RCA investigations, and service optimisation
If you're interested in the above role then please click apply or get in touch to discuss further.
Consult will endeavour to contact candidates within 14 days of application. However, if you do not hear back after 2 weeks then please assume on this occasion, unfortunately, you have not been successful.
Laboratory Operations Manager employer: Consult
Contact Detail:
Consult Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in laboratory operations. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the pharmaceutical R&D sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven operational excellence in previous roles. Highlighting your experience with Lean methodologies or project management will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Be ready to explain how you foster collaboration and maintain a safety-first culture in a lab environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in laboratory operations and management. Emphasise your leadership skills, project management experience, and familiarity with Good Laboratory Standards.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the responsibilities and requirements listed in the job description. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet these criteria.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as problem-solving, communication, and data analysis. Mention any specific tools or methodologies you are proficient in, like Lean or ABS tools.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Consult
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Laboratory Operations Manager, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive operational excellence.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
This role requires strong problem-solving skills. Prepare to discuss specific challenges you've faced in laboratory operations and how you resolved them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Compliance Standards
Knowledge of Good Laboratory Standards and health & safety compliance is crucial. Brush up on relevant regulations and be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles. This will show your commitment to maintaining high standards in the lab.
✨Prepare for Data-Driven Discussions
Since the role involves data analysis and reporting, be prepared to talk about your experience with data management tools like Excel. Bring examples of reports or dashboards you've created, and be ready to explain how you've used data to drive improvements in laboratory operations.
