How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Cawood
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.
This is an exciting time to join Cawood. The business is growing and there are plenty of opportunities for people who want to work hard, have fun and be part of our success.
Job Description
We are looking for an experienced and people‑focused Wet Chemistry 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.
As the Wet Chemistry Manager, you will oversee a team of 10–20 colleagues, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient day‑to‑day operations while maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.
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
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
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
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
What You’ll Bring
Essential
- Strong understanding of ISO, UKAS, and audit requirements
- Experience working in a laboratory environment with good operational knowledge
- 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 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
Ready to Apply?
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.
Apply now and be part of a team that values quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills