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 with a green mission.
- Benefits: 30 days leave, private healthcare, competitive pension, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and celebrates uniqueness.
- 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.
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.
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.
Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.
Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:
- Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
- Be You - We want you to bring your best every day. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
- Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
Head of Laboratory Services in Exeter employer: South West Water
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through extensive training programmes and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, all while working in the breathtaking landscapes of the South West. Join us as the Head of Laboratory Services and lead a team dedicated to ensuring safe drinking water and environmental excellence, with a comprehensive benefits package that supports your well-being and career aspirations.
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 current or former employees at South West Water on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about our mission to create a greener future.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about your past experiences leading teams and driving innovation. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
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 is tailored to the Head of Laboratory Services role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant qualifications that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about laboratory services and how you can drive innovation and compliance. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and improve processes. Numbers and results speak volumes, so don’t hold back on sharing your successes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of laboratory standards like ISO17025 and MCERTS. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles, as this will show your understanding of the regulatory landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading multidisciplinary teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you inspired your team to achieve operational excellence. This is key for a strategic role like Head of Laboratory Services.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Growth
Be ready to talk about how you've driven innovation in past positions. Discuss any initiatives you've led that expanded services or improved efficiency. This aligns perfectly with their goal of championing commercial growth.
✨Connect with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with South West Water's core values: being rock solid, being yourself, and being the future. Think of ways you can demonstrate these values through your experiences and how they resonate with your personal work ethic.
