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 purpose-driven mission.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, private healthcare, and a competitive pension scheme.
- 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 Plymouth 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 comprehensive training programmes and a strong focus on well-being, ensuring that our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Located in the picturesque South West, our laboratory services play a crucial role in safeguarding public health and the environment, making this an ideal opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Laboratory Services in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at South West Water. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s values and recent projects. Show us how your experience aligns with their mission of delivering safe drinking water and environmental excellence. We love candidates who are genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! As a Head of Laboratory Services, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to inspire teams and drive innovation. Share specific examples of how you’ve led teams to success in the past.
✨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 making a splash in the water sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Laboratory Services in Plymouth
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 align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits into our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for water quality and environmental excellence. Share specific examples of how you've driven innovation and compliance in previous roles, as this will resonate with us.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on achievements rather than just responsibilities. Quantify your successes where possible, like improvements in lab efficiency or successful project completions. We love numbers that tell a story!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team at South West Water!
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. Being able to discuss these in detail will show that you're not just familiar with the regulations, but that you can lead a team in maintaining compliance.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you inspired your team to overcome them. This role is all about leadership, so demonstrating your experience here is key.
✨Emphasise Innovation
Be ready to talk about how you've driven innovation in previous roles. Whether it's implementing new technologies or improving processes, showcasing your ability to think outside the box will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Connect with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with South West Water's core values and be prepared to discuss how you embody these in your work. Showing that you align with their mission of sustainability and community impact will set you apart as a candidate who truly fits their culture.
