Laboratory Manager

Univar Solutions; Noak Hill; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A global chemical distribution company is looking for a Laboratory Manager to oversee the laboratory function at their Noak Hill facility. The successful candidate will lead a small team, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards while driving operational excellence in production testing. This role requires strong knowledge of food and pharma regulations, as well as hands-on experience with laboratory equipment. An exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within a well-established organization awaits you.

Benefits

Opportunities for career growth

Valuable contributions recognized

Innovative working environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in laboratory management and team leadership.
• Strong knowledge of food and/or pharma regulations and certifications.
• Solid understanding of production processes including mixing and formulation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage laboratory resources to meet production demands.
• Ensure lab equipment is maintained and compliant with safety standards.
• Drive laboratory quality control procedures and implement improvements.

Skills

Leading and developing high-performing teams

Handling analytical chemistry techniques and equipment

Strong IT proficiency

Interpersonal skills

Confident communication

Education

Scientific qualification in Chemistry or comparable experience

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Global Distributor of Chemicals & Ingredients Used in Everyday Products
Culture: Work with real purpose. Grow how you want to. Be who you are

Skills / Background

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams
• A scientific qualification (ideally in Chemistry) or comparable experience, capable of confidently handling analytical chemistry techniques and equipment
• Strong IT proficiency with excellent organisational and administrative skills
• Adaptable and effective interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships
• Confident communicator, able to engage clearly and professionally with stakeholders at all levels

About the Role

We are seeking a proactive and experienced Laboratory Manager to lead the laboratory function at our Billericay Colour facility, managing a small team of two direct reports. This pivotal position underpins the smooth and compliant operation of the site, ensuring high standards across quality, safety, and technical performance.

The ideal candidate will bring strong knowledge of food and/or pharma regulations and certifications such as FDA colour specifications, IPEC Guidelines, FSSC 22000, HACCP principles, and broader quality management systems. A solid understanding of production processes—particularly mixing, milling, and product formulation—as well as familiarity with specialised laboratory and production equipment, is essential.

In addition to overseeing the laboratory’s day‑to‑day operations, the role will support the Quality Control function during periods of team absence, requiring flexibility and a hands‑on approach.

Responsibilities

• Drive laboratory resources to meet production testing demands and support all product development needs
• Lead, develop, train/coach, and performance‑manage laboratory staff
• Ensure all lab equipment is maintained, calibrated, documented, and supported by up‑to‑date COSHH information and required risk assessments (including COSHH)
• Shape and deliver the laboratory’s Annual Operating Plan (AOP)
• Establish, implement, and uphold robust quality control procedures, policies, and standards across all production stages
• Analyse production performance to identify improvements, implement corrective actions, and drive first‑time pass rates
• Create, track, and continuously refine departmental KPIs
• Drive non‑conformance resolution through CAPA and Root Cause (5 Why’s)
• Support and contribute to internal audits, external certifications (e.g. ISO), and work with site management, regulatory bodies, and the Commercial team for Kosher and Halal audits
• Partner with suppliers and vendors to verify the quality of incoming raw materials and ingredients
• Uphold strict PPE adherence for laboratory and production staff
• Maintain responsibility for Food Safety and IPEC compliance

Who We Are

With revenues in excess of $9 billion, we are one of the largest chemical & specialty product distribution businesses in the world. Our portfolio spans almost every industry—from food ingredients and automotive to pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and manufacturing industries. We deliver industry‑leading products, services, and technical support to help our customers find the right solution to their challenges.

Our Values

• Serious about safety
• We do what we say
• Where people matter
• Valuable to others
• Together we win

If you're excited by the opportunity to lead a high‑performing laboratory team, influence key quality and compliance standards, and join a company where your work really matters, we'd love to hear from you. This is a standout role offering the chance to grow, innovate, and make a meaningful impact within a truly global organisation.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today and bring your expertise to a team where your contribution will be valued, recognised, and rewarded.