Preparation Manager

Cawood; Bracknell; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Cawood, the UK's leading independent analytical laboratory, is seeking an experienced Preparation Manager to lead the NRM Bracknell operations. This role focuses on driving performance, engagement, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced lab environment.

You will manage the preparation team, oversee workflow and training, ensure UKAS/ISO 17025 compliance, support method development with the Technical Team, and maintain data integrity using EBOS and LIMS.

Qualifications

• Experience leading teams in a laboratory setting with ISO/UKAS awareness.
• Strong leadership, communication, and coaching skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail.
• Self-motivated and collaborative with a hands-on approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop the operations team to drive high performance.
• Oversee workflow, resource planning and staffing to meet turnaround times.
• Ensure procedures meet UKAS/ISO 17025 and quality standards.
• Support method development with the Technical Team.
• Maintain data integrity and drive continuous improvement using EBOS.
• Support LIMS implementation and ongoing use.

Skills

People leadership

Communication

Coaching

Staff development

Attention to detail

Influence & motivation

Tools

LIMS

EBOS

Job description

Cawood is the largest independent provider of analytical laboratory testing and sampling services for the land-based industries in the UK. With 15 sites around the country specialising in different types of analysis, we are always looking for skilled and talented individuals to join our teams.

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced and people‑focused Preparation Manager to lead our busy operations team at NRM Bracknell. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader who thrives in a fast‑paced laboratory environment and is passionate about driving performance, engagement, and continuous improvement.

What You’ll Be Doing

People Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop your team to drive high performance and engagement
• Conduct regular 1:1s, feedback sessions, performance reviews, and development planning
• Manage recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing staff training
• Ensure training records, competence, and performance standards are fully maintained
• Foster a positive, collaborative culture aligned with our values and People Leader expectations

Operational Delivery

• Oversee workflow, resource planning, and staff allocation to meet turnaround times
• Ensure all processes, equipment, and documentation meet UKAS and ISO/IEC 17025 standards
• Troubleshoot technical issues and support method development alongside the Technical Team
• Maintain data integrity, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement using EBOS tools
• Support implementation and effective use of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with Customer Services, Business Development and Technical Services
• Support client meetings and maintain excellent customer relationships
• Communicate operational updates clearly and professionally across teams

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, COSHH, SOPs, and accreditation requirements
• Oversee non-conforming work investigations and corrective actions
• Maintain a safe, clean, audit‑ready laboratory environment
• Act as Fire Marshal, First Aider, Internal Auditor or Key Holder when required

Essential

What You’ll Bring

• Strong understanding of ISO, UKAS, and audit requirements
• Excellent leadership, communication, and coaching skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with strong attention to detail
• Self‑motivated, collaborative, and confident in driving team performance
• Hands‑on approach with the ability to influence and motivate others

Desirable

• Experience working in a laboratory environment with good operational knowledge
• Experience within a UKAS‑accredited laboratory
• Knowledge of food/feed or chemistry‑based laboratory techniques

Why Join Us?

• A key leadership role within a respected and growing organisation
• Opportunity to shape team culture and drive operational excellence
• Training, development, and internal progression opportunities
• Work in a collaborative environment where your ideas and leadership matter

If you are an engaging leader with strong laboratory knowledge and a passion for driving people and performance, we’d love to hear from you.