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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in a fast-paced laboratory environment, driving performance and engagement.
- Company: Cawood, the largest independent provider of analytical testing services in the UK.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, training opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Shape team culture and drive operational excellence in a respected organisation.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in a laboratory environment.
- Other info: Join a fun, collaborative workplace that values your ideas and growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Cawood is the largest independent provider of analytical laboratory testing and sampling services for the land-based industries in the UK. With 15 sites around the country specialising in different types of analysis, we are always looking for skilled and talented individuals to join our teams. This is an exciting time to join Cawood. The business is growing and there are plenty of opportunities for people who want to work hard, have fun and be part of our success.
What You’ll Be Doing
- People Leadership
- Lead, coach, and develop your team to drive high performance and engagement
- Conduct regular 1:1s, feedback sessions, performance reviews, and development planning
- Manage recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing staff training
- Ensure training records, competence, and performance standards are fully maintained
- Foster a positive, collaborative culture aligned with our values and People Leader expectations
- Operational Delivery
- Oversee workflow, resource planning, and staff allocation to meet turnaround times
- Ensure all processes, equipment, and documentation meet UKAS and ISO/IEC 17025 standards
- Troubleshoot technical issues and support method development alongside the Technical Team
- Maintain data integrity, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement using EBOS tools
- Support implementation and effective use of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
- Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
- Work closely with Customer Services, Business Development and Technical Services
- Support client meetings and maintain excellent customer relationships
- Communicate operational updates clearly and professionally across teams
- Quality, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, COSHH, SOPs, and accreditation requirements
- Oversee non-conforming work investigations and corrective actions
- Maintain a safe, clean, audit-ready laboratory environment
- Act as Fire Marshal, First Aider, Internal Auditor or Key Holder when required
What You’ll Bring
- Essential
- Strong understanding of ISO, UKAS, and audit requirements
- Experience working in a laboratory environment with good operational knowledge
- Excellent leadership, communication, and coaching skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities with strong attention to detail
- Self-motivated, collaborative, and confident in driving team performance
- Hands-on approach with the ability to influence and motivate others
- Desirable
- Experience within a UKAS-accredited laboratory
- Knowledge of food/feed or chemistry-based laboratory techniques
This is a key leadership role within a respected and growing organisation. You will have the opportunity to shape team culture and drive operational excellence. We offer training, development, and internal progression opportunities in a collaborative environment where your ideas and leadership matter.
If you are an engaging leader with strong laboratory knowledge and a passion for driving people and performance, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and be part of a team that values quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Characterisation Manager in Bracknell employer: Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense
Contact Detail:
Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Characterisation Manager in Bracknell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or at industry events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. We want to show that we’re not just a good fit for the role, but also for the team. Tailor your answers to reflect how you align with their values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family. We can’t stress enough how important it is to be comfortable talking about your experiences and skills in a way that resonates with the interviewer.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows that we appreciate the opportunity and keeps us fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Characterisation Manager in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Characterisation Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant lab knowledge that aligns with what we’re looking for at Cawood.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm shine through! We want to see your passion for driving performance and engagement in a lab environment. Share examples of how you've motivated teams or improved processes in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Cawood.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense
✨Know Your Standards
Make sure you have a solid understanding of ISO and UKAS standards, as these are crucial for the Characterisation Manager role. Brush up on any relevant regulations and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience. Think about times when you've successfully coached a team or managed performance reviews. Be ready to explain how you foster a positive culture and drive engagement within your team.
✨Demonstrate Operational Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with laboratory operations and the specific challenges they face. Be prepared to discuss how you've handled workflow management and resource planning in past roles, and how you can ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about your experience in customer and stakeholder engagement. Prepare to share examples of how you've maintained strong relationships and communicated effectively across teams. This will show that you understand the importance of collaboration in achieving operational excellence.
