At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire laboratory teams to achieve high performance and continuous improvement.
- Company: Join South West Water, committed to a greener future in stunning landscapes.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, private healthcare, and a competitive pension.
- Other info: Great career development opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on water quality and drive innovation in laboratory services.
- Qualifications: Degree in a scientific discipline and significant leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes. As part of the Pennon Group, we are committed to a greener future through carbon reduction, tree planting, peatland restoration, and water quality improvement initiatives.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead, develop, and inspire laboratory teams to deliver high performance and continuous improvement.
- Own and manage laboratory operations, budgets, and resources to drive efficiency and value.
- Ensure compliance with key standards including ISO17025, DWTS, and MCERTS accreditation.
- Drive a culture of excellence in analytical quality, safety, and customer service.
- Oversee accurate reporting and data returns, ensuring robust regulatory compliance.
- Work closely with internal teams, regulators, and external partners to deliver industry-leading outcomes.
- Champion innovation and commercial growth, expanding laboratory services to internal and third-party customers.
- Develop capability within the team through structured training and development programmes.
Qualifications:
- Degree in a relevant scientific discipline (essential).
- Professional or management qualifications (desirable).
- Health & safety qualification (essential).
- Full UK driving licence.
Experience:
- Significant leadership experience (10+ years) in laboratory, scientific, or water quality environments.
- Proven ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams and deliver operational excellence.
- Strong track record of working in highly regulated environments.
- Deep understanding of laboratory quality systems (ISO17025 or similar).
- Strong commercial awareness and strategic thinking.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Passion for data accuracy, scientific integrity, and customer outcomes.
What’s in it for you:
- 30 days annual leave + bank holidays.
- Bonus plan.
- Private healthcare.
- Company car or cash for car allowance.
- Competitive contributory pension.
- Share-save scheme.
- Health benefits & wellbeing support programmes.
- Group discounts.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Financial support services.
- Development and training opportunities.
Closing Date: 3rd June 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. The successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
Head of Laboratory Services in Exeter employer: Pennon Group Plc
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and excellence thrive. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our structured training programmes and comprehensive benefits, including private healthcare and a competitive pension scheme. Located amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the South West, we foster a culture that values safety, quality, and customer service, making it a rewarding place to build your career in laboratory services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Laboratory Services in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Head of Laboratory Services role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching South West Water and their initiatives. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for their mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your leadership and compliance expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your experience in managing laboratory operations and driving efficiency – that’s what will set you apart!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to a greener future.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Laboratory Services in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Head of Laboratory Services role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant qualifications, especially in laboratory environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our mission at South West Water. Be specific about your achievements and how they align with our goals.
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge:Since compliance is key in this role, emphasise your understanding of standards like ISO17025 and your experience in regulated environments. This will show us you’re serious about quality and safety.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pennon Group Plc
✨Know Your Standards
Familiarise yourself with key standards like ISO17025, DWTS, and MCERTS accreditation. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these standards and how you can ensure compliance in the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership skills, especially in laboratory or scientific environments. Think about times you've led multidisciplinary teams and how you drove operational excellence.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Be prepared to talk about how you can champion innovation and commercial growth within laboratory services. Share ideas on expanding services to both internal and third-party customers.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since excellent communication is crucial for influencing stakeholders, consider how you can convey complex information simply and effectively.
