Laboratory and Greenhouse manager

KWS Group; Thriplow; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

30 days leave

Pension 16%

Life Assurance

Income protection

Private health care

Bonus scheme

Discount scheme

Diesel discount

Social events

Global company

Job summary

KWS UK Ltd. is seeking an experienced Laboratory and Greenhouse Manager to lead our lab and greenhouse operations in Thriplow. The role focuses on delivering high-quality breeding-support activities while guiding a growing team.

The ideal candidate combines strong scientific expertise with hands-on leadership, ensuring safety, efficiency, and collaborative success across departments. This is a leadership role within a global agricultural innovation company.

Qualifications

• Degree-level education in a relevant scientific discipline.
• Minimum 3 years' supervisory experience.
• Strong Health & Safety knowledge in laboratory environments.
• Fluent English, written and verbal.
• Proficiency in Excel and databases.

Responsibilities

• Provide effective line management and leadership to team members.
• Lead activities within Quality Laboratory, Tissue Culture Laboratory, and Greenhouse operations.
• Contribute as a member of Breeding Station Management Team.
• Ensure efficient planning, coordination, and execution of lab and greenhouse activities.
• Promote high standards of health, safety, and compliance in labs.
• Monitor workflows and resources to ensure timely delivery of objectives.
• Foster a positive, collaborative culture across teams.

Skills

People leadership

Excel proficiency

Stakeholder communication

Laboratory safety

Education

Degree-level education

Tools

MS Excel

Database systems

Job description

Are you an experienced people leader with a passion for science, quality, and operational excellence? At KWS UK Ltd., we are looking for a Laboratory and Greenhouse manager to join our team in Thriplow .

In this key leadership role, you will contribute to the success of our breeding operations by leading laboratory and greenhouse activities, managing teams, and ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and performance.

Your Responsibilities

As theLaboratory and Greenhouse manager, you will:

• Provide effective line management and leadership to team members, supporting their development and performance.
• Lead and oversee activities within the Quality Laboratory, Tissue Culture Laboratory, and Greenhouse operations.
• Contribute as an active member of the Breeding Station Management Team, supporting strategic and operational objectives.
• Ensure the efficient planning, coordination, and execution of laboratory and greenhouse activities.
• Promote and maintain high standards of health, safety, and compliance, particularly within laboratory environments.
• Monitor workflows and resources to ensure timely delivery of objectives and high-quality results.
• Foster a positive, collaborative culture and encourage effective communication across teams.

What You'll Bring

We are looking for someone who combines strong scientific expertise with proven leadership capabilities and a hands-on approach.

• Degree-level education in a relevant scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a supervisory or leadership role
• Strong knowledge of Health and Safety requirements, particularly within laboratory environments.
• Fluent English communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and database systems.
• Practical, hands-on mindset with a willingness to work both inside and outside of laboratory environments.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to plan, prioritise, and deliver tasks efficiently.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Collaborative team player who understands and supports broader team priorities.

What We Offer

At KWS, we believe our people are our greatest strength. We offer a rewarding environment where you can grow professionally while making a meaningful impact.

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Highly competitive pension scheme with 16% company contribution and 1.2% minimum employee contribution
• Life Assurance at three times annual salary
• Income Protection Plan providing 75% of salary for long-term illness and disability for up to three years
• Private Health Care Plan
• Profit Related Bonus Scheme targeted at 10% of annual salary
• Membership of a Lifestyles discount scheme
• Reduced diesel prices from the company's fuel pump
• A supportive and enjoyable working environment where we take care of one another
• Social events including a Summer Staff BBQ, Christmas party, and charity fundraising activities
• The opportunity to work within a global agricultural innovation company committed to sustainable progress and scientific excellence

Join KWS

At KWS, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.