Head Of Testing

Impact Recruitment Services; Kettering; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is looking for a Head of Safety Products Testing to lead accredited laboratories in Kettering. The role requires proven leadership in a technical team and strong business development skills. You will ensure compliance with ISO standards while driving growth and innovation within the team. This position offers competitive salary, flexible working hours, and significant opportunities for personal and professional development in a globally recognized organization.

Benefits

Competitive salary

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.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to plan for departmental growth.
• Well‑organised, detail‑oriented, and proficient in MS Office (especially Excel).

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 and global standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Team Leadership

Business Development

Technical Testing Standards

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Tools

MS Office (Excel)

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

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

This role may also be known as: Head of Testing, Laboratory Manager, Technical Manager, PPE Testing Manager, Safety Products Manager, Quality and Compliance Manager, Head of Laboratory Services, Senior Test Manager, Product Compliance Manager, Head of Technical Operations, Testing and Certification Manager, Laboratory Operations Manager, Senior Laboratory Leader, Head of Product Testing, Technical Services Manager