Business Operations Manager

Sopra Steria Limited; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading risk management consultancy in Gateshead is seeking an experienced Laboratory Manager to oversee its busy analytical laboratories. The role involves managing a team of professionals to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency, while upholding UKAS-accredited standards. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in laboratory operations, with proven leadership ability. This position offers a competitive salary and better benefits, along with opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Excellent benefits

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations.
• Experience managing teams of 10+ staff in a laboratory setting.
• Strong understanding of ISO 17025 and LAB 30 quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of analytical laboratories to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Manage a laboratory team of 10+ full-time employees.
• Ensure compliance with UKAS standards and relevant quality management systems.

Skills

Laboratory management

ISO 17025 compliance

Customer service improvement

Laboratory budgets management

Education

RSPH Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management

Job description

Laboratory Manager - Lucion Services (Gateshead)

Location: Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits
Contract: Full Time, Permanent

About Us

At Lucion Services, we're dedicated to making the world a safer place to live and work. As one of the UK's leading risk management and compliance consultancies, our laboratories play a crucial role in delivering high-quality asbestos testing, environmental analysis, and scientific innovation. We're now looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to join our Gateshead team and lead a talented group of professionals in driving operational excellence, technical quality, and continuous improvement.

The Role

As our Laboratory Manager, you'll oversee the day-to-day operations of our busy analytical laboratories, ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency at every level. You will manage a team of laboratory professionals, uphold UKAS-accredited standards, and lead initiatives to improve performance, customer service, and technical capability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a laboratory team of 10+ full-time employees, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration.
• Maintain compliance with ISO 17025, LAB 30, and relevant quality management systems.
• Oversee all aspects of laboratory performance, including workflow, sample preparation, and analytical procedures.
• Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results in line with OTD (On Time Delivery) targets and client expectations.
• Manage laboratory budgets, resources, consumables, and waste disposal.
• Conduct staff training, authorisations, competency assessments, and performance reviews.
• Support and lead UKAS audits, accreditation activities, and compliance monitoring.
• Oversee participation in RICE, AIMS, AISS, SEMS, or equivalent proficiency testing schemes.
• Develop and implement new analytical methods and drive investment in laboratory capability and innovation.
• Interpret and report analytical data for internal and external clients.

About You

We're looking for a technically proficient, people-focused leader with a passion for laboratory excellence and continuous improvement.

Essential Requirements

• Minimum 5 years' professional experience in asbestos testing or chemistry laboratory operations.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams of 10+ staff.
• Strong understanding of ISO 17025, LAB 30, or similar quality systems.
• Demonstrable record of improving customer service and laboratory performance.
• Experience managing laboratory budgets and resources.
• Competence in BOHS proficiency modules.
• Sound knowledge of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
• Proven experience with UKAS accreditation and audit processes.

Desirable

• RSPH Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management.
• Experience developing new laboratory methods and implementing new technologies.

Why Lucion?

Competitive salary and benefits

Additional Information

• Opportunity to lead within a UKAS-accredited, market-leading laboratory.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
• A positive, inclusive culture built on safety, integrity, and innovation.