Analytical Laboratory Manager in Cornwall, St Austell

The Analytical Laboratory Manager is responsible for the overall leadership and day-to-day management of the Analytical Laboratory in Par, Cornwall, overseeing both the Wet Chemistry and X-Ray Analysis laboratories. Reporting to the Analytical Technology Director, the role ensures the continued maintenance of ISO 17025:2015 accreditation while delivering accurate, timely, and high-quality analytical results that support operational, technical, and commercial business needs.

This position provides technical and managerial leadership to laboratory supervisors, scientists, and technicians, ensuring compliance with regulatory, quality, and health & safety standards. The role also oversees method development, instrument performance and maintenance, laboratory budgeting (CAPEX and OPEX), and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, capability, and service delivery.

The successful candidate will combine strong analytical expertise with proven leadership experience, driving operational excellence, fostering a safe working environment, and supporting innovation in analytical testing aligned with evolving business demands.

Whats in it for you?

• 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Generous Pension Plan (employee contributions 3%–6%, employer contributions 6%–9%)
• Group Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Private Medical Insurance
• Generous Company Sick Pay Scheme
• Enhanced family friendly policies
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee Discount Portal

You Will have

• A degree in Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science, Geology, Mineralogy, or a related scientific discipline (MSc or PhD preferred).
• Significant experience (typically 10+ years) within an analytical laboratory environment, including 3–5 years in a laboratory management or leadership role.
• Strong technical expertise in wet chemistry and instrumental techniques such as ICP-OES/MS, trace metal analysis, X-ray analysis, and mineralogical techniques including Rietveld semi-quantitative analysis.
• Proven experience maintaining ISO 17025:2015 accreditation, including method validation, proficiency testing, audit preparation, and non-conformance management.
• Working knowledge of ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Experience operating and managing Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Demonstrated experience managing laboratory budgets (CAPEX and OPEX), preventive and corrective instrument maintenance, and capital equipment installation.
• A strong commitment to Health, Safety and Environmental standards, including safe chemical handling and working with ionising radiation equipment.
• Proven ability to lead, coach and develop technical teams, building capability and maintaining high performance standards.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results under pressure.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data logically and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Effective communication skills, enabling collaboration across technical, production and commercial teams, with proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications.

To ensure fairness and legal compliance in our recruitment processes, only applications received through the online application process will be considered.

IMERYS is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and it is our policy to not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws.