At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic chemistry team and drive business growth in a cutting-edge lab.
- Company: Join a leading organisation in chemical testing with a collaborative environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous annual leave, life assurance, pension plan, and free parking.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career development 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
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) in Kettering 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Chemistry (12 month FTC - Maternity Cover) in Kettering
✨Get Involved in the Chemistry Community
Engage with local chemistry societies and attend their events. Whether it's a conference or a seminar, these gatherings can be gold mines for networking and spotting job openings at companies like SATRA Technology. Plus, being face-to-face with industry professionals can leave a lasting impression!
✨Utilise Online Platforms for Chemistry Jobs
Don’t just rely on mainstream job boards. Sites like Chemistry World and Chemjobs are specifically geared for our field. Set up alerts for new openings at places like SATRA Technology to be the first to apply!
✨Showcase Your Research & Projects
Create a professional online portfolio that highlights your chemistry projects or research. This could be a blog or a simple website that showcases your skills and experience. When you apply to SATRA Technology, you want them to see what you can do beyond the CV.
✨Connect With Recruiters Specialised in Chemistry
Reach out to recruitment agencies that focus on the chemistry sector. They often have inside tracks on job openings at companies like SATRA Technology and can provide valuable advice tailored to full-time roles in our industry. Don't be shy to ask for insights!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Chemistry (12 month FTC - Maternity Cover) in Kettering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at SATRA Technology. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
Include Relevant References:Since chemistry roles can be quite specific, having reference letters from professors or previous employers in the field can be a huge plus. Make sure to include contacts who can vouch for your skills and dedication, as it adds credibility to your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at SATRA Technology
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
✨Master the Technical Speak
Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make a portfolio showcasing our best lab work and any research projects we've been involved in. It's a great way to demonstrate our skills and passion for chemistry. We should tailor it to highlight the aspects most relevant to SATRA Technology and the Head of Chemistry (12 month FTC - Maternity Cover) role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
