Head of Testing

Commercial; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A global safety products leader in Kettering seeks a Head of Safety Products Testing to oversee labs and lead a team ensuring PPE compliance with international standards. This senior role focuses on driving growth and innovation while maintaining high standards. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership experience, strong business development skills, and excellent communication. Competitive salary and benefits included, offering a pivotal role in a respected organization.

Benefits

25-30 days annual leave

Life assurance

Income protection

Flexible hours

Free parking

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading technical teams in a laboratory or testing environment.
• Strong business development skills and experience managing budgets.
• Deep understanding of technical testing standards and PPE compliance.
• Excellent communication and networking skills, able to liaise with senior international stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of technical specialists.
• Manage departmental budgets, forecasting, and expenses.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 17025 and UKAS standards.
• Promote services and develop client relationships.
• Keep up-to-date with PPE testing legislation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Business development

Technical testing standards

Excellent communication

Strategic planning

Detail-oriented

MS Office proficiency

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Role

Business Area Manager - Head of Safety Products Testing

Location

Kettering, UK

Salary

£40,000 - £50,000 per annum (DOE)

Hours

37.5 hrs / week

Overview

We are working on behalf of our client, a well-established and globally recognised organisation, who are seeking a Head of Safety Products Testing to lead their accredited laboratories and inspire a team of specialists testing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to the highest international standards.

In this senior role, you'll combine technical expertise, strategic vision, and commercial acumen to ensure the Safety Products Testing team not only meets but exceeds customer and business expectations. You'll be the driving force behind growth, innovation, and quality, enhancing the organisation's reputation worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of technical specialists to reach their full potential
• Manage departmental budgets, forecasting, and expenses while driving revenue growth
• Ensure compliance with ISO 17025 and UKAS standards across all testing operations
• Promote services, develop client relationships, and represent the organisation at trade fairs and industry events
• Keep up-to-date with PPE testing legislation and global standards, influencing the department's strategy
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and maintain a culture of excellence

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience leading technical teams in a laboratory or testing environment
• Strong business development skills and experience managing budgets
• Deep understanding of technical testing standards and PPE compliance
• Excellent communication and networking skills, able to liaise with senior international stakeholders
• Strategic thinker with the ability to plan for departmental growth
• Well‑organised, detail‑oriented, and proficient in MS Office (especially Excel)

Desirable

• Experience in the PPE industry
• Leadership qualification
• Experience in sales or marketing initiatives

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits, including 25‑30 days annual leave, life assurance, income protection, flexible hours, and free parking. Opportunity to shape and lead a high‑performing, respected team.

Play a pivotal role in a globally recognised organisation