At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in a fast-paced laboratory environment, driving performance and engagement.
- Company: Cawood, the largest independent analytical testing provider in the UK.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, training opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Join a fun, collaborative environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Shape team culture and drive operational excellence in a respected organisation.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and understanding of ISO and UKAS standards.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ 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.
We are looking for an experienced and people‑focused Preparation Manager to lead our busy operations team at NRM Bracknell. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader who thrives in a fast‑paced laboratory environment and is passionate about driving performance, engagement, and continuous improvement.
As the Preparation Manager, you will oversee a team of 10–20 colleagues, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient day‑to‑day operations while maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.
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
- 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 working in a laboratory environment with good operational knowledge
- Experience within a UKAS‑accredited laboratory
- Knowledge of food/feed or chemistry-based laboratory techniques
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.
Cawood is a flexible employer, offering flextime, overtime and time off in lieu to help colleagues manage their work in a way that suits them as well as the business. We believe in working together to find the best outcome for all and we foster a culture of friendliness and family within our teams.
Preparation Manager employer: Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense
Cawood is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in Bracknell, where employees are encouraged to thrive through flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on personal development. As a Preparation Manager, you will lead a dedicated team in a fast-paced laboratory setting, with ample opportunities for growth and the chance to shape a positive team culture while ensuring operational excellence. Join us to be part of a collaborative family that values quality, engagement, and continuous improvement.
Contact Details:
Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Preparation Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry on LinkedIn or at local events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Tailor your answers to show how you fit into their team and values. We want to see your personality shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family. The more comfortable you are talking about your experience, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reinforce your interest in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Preparation Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Preparation Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant lab knowledge that aligns with what we're looking for.
Showcase Your People Skills:Since this role is all about leading a team, don’t forget to mention your coaching and communication skills. We want to see how you can engage and motivate others!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of ISO, UKAS, and audit requirements. Brush up on your knowledge of laboratory operations and be ready to discuss how you've applied these standards in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you drove performance or improved team engagement, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges in a fast-paced laboratory environment. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, especially around troubleshooting and operational delivery.
✨Engage with the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with Cawood's values and culture. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a positive, collaborative environment and how your personal values align with theirs. This shows you're not just looking for a job, but a place where you can thrive.
