At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire laboratory teams to deliver high-quality analytical services.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: 30 days annual leave, private healthcare, competitive pension, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on transparency and scientific excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health and the environment while driving innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in a scientific discipline and significant leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose. 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. We’re proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we’re working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and support farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
We’re looking for an exceptional Head of Laboratory Services to lead and inspire our laboratory function, delivering high-quality, accredited analytical services that underpin safe drinking water and environmental excellence. This is a strategic leadership role, where you’ll shape the future of laboratory services—ensuring regulatory compliance, driving innovation, and embedding a strong “Quality First” culture across the organisation.
The role will primarily be based at our main laboratory in Exeter but encompasses leadership responsibility for our laboratory in Redhill and regular engagements with various teams in the South West, Bristol and Sutton and East Surrey operating regions.
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
What we’re looking for:
- Degree in a relevant scientific discipline (essential)
- Professional or management qualifications (desirable)
- Health & safety qualification (essential)
- Full UK driving licence
- 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
- … and much more!
This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-impact, purpose-driven function that protects public health and the environment, while shaping strategy, driving meaningful improvements across laboratory services, and working within a collaborative, innovative culture built on transparency and scientific excellence.
Closing Date: 3rd June 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
Head of Laboratory Services South West Water · Engineering, Technical and Scientific · Exeter employer: Pennon Group Plc
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through extensive training programmes and a supportive environment that encourages career progression. With competitive benefits, including private healthcare and a generous leave policy, working in Exeter not only allows you to contribute to vital environmental initiatives but also to thrive in one of the UK's most beautiful regions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Laboratory Services South West Water · Engineering, Technical and Scientific · Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at South West Water on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research the latest trends in laboratory services and water quality. Show them you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about their mission and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams to success, especially in regulated environments. They want to see your strategic thinking in action.
✨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 you’re serious about joining the team at South West Water.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Laboratory Services South West Water · Engineering, Technical and Scientific · Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with 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 your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your commitment to quality and innovation in laboratory services!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and drive operational excellence. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes, so include them where possible!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s quick and easy, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pennon Group Plc
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of laboratory operations and the specific standards mentioned in the job description, like ISO17025. Being able to discuss these in detail will show that you're not just familiar with them, but that you can lead a team in adhering to these standards.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully led teams or driven improvements in a laboratory setting. Highlight how you inspired your team and what strategies you used to achieve operational excellence.
✨Understand Their Goals
Research South West Water’s initiatives, especially their focus on sustainability and innovation. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals, particularly around lowering carbon footprints and enhancing water quality.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about their current projects, challenges they face in laboratory services, or how they measure success in this role. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
