Sample Dispatch Team Lead — Operations & Compliance

Avantor; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Avantor Services in Cambridge is seeking an experienced Sample Dispatch Team Lead to oversee daily operations for a 12-month fixed-term contract. You will manage a team of technicians, coordinate delivery activities, and ensure service excellence, regulatory compliance, and business continuity in a complex research environment.

The role requires strong leadership, clear communication, and a proven ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Previous people management experience within Sample Dispatch, logistics, or laboratory support.
• Strong leadership skills with experience developing teams.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with operational reporting, data analysis, and KPI management.
• High attention to detail and commitment to compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of Sample Dispatch services across the Cambridge sites, including the Discovery Centre and Anne McLaren Building.
• Directly manage and develop a team, including resource planning, performance management, training, and business continuity.
• Coordinate and prioritize daily operational activities to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Act as the primary point of contact and escalation for Sample Dispatch-related queries and issues.
• Provide operational cover when required and serve as the subject matter expert for Sample Dispatch activities.
• Maintain and update operational documentation, including work instructions, risk assessments, SOPs, and training records.
• Produce and manage operational reports, dashboards, and KPI metrics.
• Prepare and present monthly and quarterly service review materials.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean principles.
• Support audit readiness and participate in regulatory inspections, health and safety audits, and Gemba walks.
• Collaborate with internal teams, suppliers, and external partners to resolve issues and drive innovation.
• Ensure the compliant handling, packaging, and shipment of materials with special requirements, including human biological samples, controlled substances, hazardous chemicals, and radioactive materials, in accordance with applicable national and international regulations.
• Promote a strong culture of health, safety, quality, and compliance.

Skills

People management

Team leadership

Stakeholder management

KPI management

Data analysis

Documentation & SOPs

Regulatory compliance

IT systems proficiency

Job description

Avantor Services in Cambridge is seeking an experienced Sample Dispatch Team Lead to oversee daily operations for a 12-month fixed-term contract. You will manage a team of technicians, coordinate delivery activities, and ensure service excellence, regulatory compliance, and business continuity in a complex research environment.

The role requires strong leadership, clear communication, and a proven ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.