laboratory manager jobs

Normec is seeking an experienced Technical & Quality Director to lead and advance the technical and quality systems within our DETS & Latis Divisions. This role can be based at either our Consett or Crayford Laboratory, with regular travel to Normec sites

About Normec

Normec Group is a leading specialist in testing, inspection, certification, and compliance, delivering high-quality and reliable laboratory and assurance services across environmental, construction, life safety, food, healthcare, and industrial sectors. We work with organisations to ensure quality, safety, and sustainability — helping them innovate safely, efficiently, and responsibly.

Role Overview

You will be responsible for optimising quality processes, driving technical excellence, and ensuring our laboratories maintain and enhance compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. This senior leadership role combines strategic vision with hands-on operational focus and will be pivotal in supporting our continued growth, performance, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development, implementation and continuous improvement of technical methods, systems and processes

Oversee and champion internal quality systems, ensuring compliance with UKAS and other regulatory and accreditation requirements

Manage, mentor and develop the Quality team to drive performance, consistency and best practice across all sites

Provide expert technical direction to laboratory management and staff

Act as principal quality and technical contact for external bodies including UKAS

Support and advise commercial teams with technical expertise, including customer engagement and technical training

Collaborate with leadership on strategic planning, performance improvement and operational efficiency

Promote and implement Lean principles and other continuous improvement approaches

Ensure all Health & Safety procedures are upheld in laboratory operations

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications & Experience

✔ Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline

✔ Extensive experience (10+ years) in quality system implementation and operation to ISO 17025 standards

✔ Proven technical leadership and supervisory experience in a commercial laboratory environment

✔ Strong knowledge of inorganic/organic chemistry or microbiology analytical techniques, especially for environmental sectors

✔ Track record of managing multiple projects and operational areas in fast-paced environments

✔ Experience in delivering technical training and presenting at senior levels

✔ Practical experience in UKAS-accredited laboratories

✔ Financial and strategic management competency

Skills & Abilities

✔ Exceptional leadership, decision-making and problem-solving skills

✔ Strong customer focus with excellent communication abilities

✔ High level of statistical and analytical understanding

✔ Skilled in organisational development with a focus on motivating teams

✔ Commercial acumen with knowledge of finance, budgeting, and business operations

✔ Competence with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

✔ Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across the business

Personal Attributes

✔ Strategic thinker with operational focus

✔ Proactive, flexible, and resourceful

✔ Responsible, reliable, and accountable

✔ Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills

✔ Self-motivated with a passion for quality and continuous improvement

Why Join Normec?

At Normec, you’ll be part of a dynamic, innovative organisation with a strong commitment to quality, safety and sustainable impact.

Ready to make a meaningful impact?

Apply now to join Normec and help us shape a safer, more reliable, and sustainable tomorrow.