At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic chemistry team and drive business development in a cutting-edge lab.
- Company: Join a leading organisation in chemical testing with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous annual leave, life assurance, pension plan, and free parking.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and international networking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the industry while inspiring a talented team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a strong background in chemistry are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Location: Kettering, UK
Salary: DOE
Hours: 37.5 hrs per week
Ref: 41/26
We have a full-time vacancy for a Head of Chemistry to oversee the team including the Laboratory Manager, Team Leader, Technologists and Technicians.
About The Department
The chemical testing team consists of around 20 multiskilled technicians, technologists, and other support staff. The chemical laboratory houses a range of analytical equipment including GC-MS, HPLC and LC-MS. Testing for restricted substances and assessing the chemical properties of a range of consumer products against international and European standards is carried out to show due diligence or to apply for CE or UKCA certification.
About The Role
The successful applicant will be expected to carry out the following:
- Business generation for the department to maintain/increase market share
- Lead and inspire the chemistry team
- Contribute to, maintain and execute coordinated sales, marketing and business development plans including working with external marketing agency
- Ensure the chemistry team continues to offer current information, support and guidance to members
- Develop and maintain a lean culture of continuous improvement
- Ensure effective personal development plans are in place for the team to develop to their full potential
- Represent SATRA to external contacts, including members, non-members, governmental and NGO
- On time completion of Spotlight/Bulletin articles
- Support and contribute to SATRA annual webinar schedule
- Maintain an appropriate UKAS scope and extend where necessary
- Be aware of serious implications of deficiencies in this area and ensure team observes the same
- Departmental Quality Management systems and documentation to be up to date and in order
- Ensure health & safety compliance
- Support SATRA China
About You
Essential
- Demonstrable experience of leading and inspiring/motivating a team
- Demonstrable success in business development and experience of working to budgetary requirements
- Comprehensive understanding and empathy with industries we serve
- Able to liaise, network and interact culturally and technically with senior industry figures internationally
- Strong interpersonal skills, able to build rapport with team members at all levels
- Inspirational, approachable, compassionate and diplomatic
- Able to effectively delegate
- Very well organised and efficient with excellent attention to detail
- Technical background with ability to comprehend complex technical testing standards
- Able to strategically plan for department development
- Able and willing to travel
Desirable
- Degree in Chemistry
- Leadership qualification
- Experience of travelling
Benefits Include
Staff benefits include 25 - 28 days (service related) annual leave; life assurance; a group personal pension plan; income protection; free parking.
Can potential applicants please advise of their salary expectations.
Closing date for receipt of applications is 18th August 2026.
First stage interviews will be held via teams on 26th August 2026.
Second stage in person interviews will be held on 4th September 2026.
Head of Chemistry (12 month FTC - Maternity Cover) employer: SATRA Technology
SATRAs Safety Product Testing department offers a dynamic and supportive work environment in Kettering, UK, where employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills in the field of Personal Protective Equipment testing. With a commitment to employee well-being, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional advancement, SATRA stands out as an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in safety and technology.
