Job Description

We are currently seeking a skilled and experienced Laboratory Manager to join our Materials Development team.


As the Laboratory Manager, you will be responsible for setting "best in class" standards for testing, reporting and adherence to internal (e.g. Security & EHS) and external standards (e.g. ISO 9001 & ISO 17025). A critical aspect of the role is accountability for ensuring De La Rue's ongoing compliance to ISO 17025.


The role is also accountable for the productivity of the Laboratory Technician team, and therefore is responsible for ensuring that the team monitor work requests and workloads so that key project priorities are met and delivered to agreed timescales. You will work with internal and external customers to continually improve laboratory testing capabilities and upskill the Laboratory Technician team, according to business requirements.


Lastly, you will provide project support and laboratory expertise to our technical teams and key strategic customers, developing new practical test methodology and specification improvement projects, where applicable.


If you're ready to contribute to a dynamic team in a fast-paced and innovative environment, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

Ensuring that all processes, procedures, and documentation within the laboratory meet the requirements of agreed standards (including ISO 17025 & IS 9001). Maintaining and evolving a quality management system to ensure compliance to regulatory, safety and security requirements. Participating in audits (internal and external), and implementation of corrective actions to address non-conformities. Maintaining and managing laboratory areas and equipment to ensure equipment meets the requirements of agreed standards (including ISO 17025 & ISO 9001). Leading continuous improvement initiatives by analysing data, reviewing risks, identifying trends, and implementing improvements to enhance quality performance. Signing off the reporting of test results. Supporting the team with prioritising work requests according to business needs and be the decision-maker in any instances where priority calls are required. Undertake hands on test support within the laboratories as required, including report writing, equipment advice and best practice. Ensure that all activity within the department is conducted in a manner compatible with EHS, COSHH and company security/housekeeping requirements. Provide training to laboratory personnel on quality systems, ISO 17025 requirements, and test methods to ensure that all employees are aware of their responsibilities and understand the importance of quality compliance.

Contract type

: Permanent

Working hours

: Full Time - 37.5 hrs per week

Base location

: Basingstoke

Skills, Qualifications & Experience

Experience of managing an ISO17025 accredited laboratory. Previous experience of managing a small team within a laboratory, providing guidance on: + working with hazardous chemicals
+ risk assessments
+ regulatory compliance
Experience of working with hazardous chemicals and writing risk assessments. Experience of delivering reports and recommendations in a timely manner. Ideally, the individual should have banknote and testing experience and extensive knowledge of polymer and paper substrate performance and test methods. Health & Safety qualifications (e.g. NEBOSH) (desirable)

About De La Rue

De La Rue partners with governments, central banks, and state printworks to deliver secure products and services that safeguard the integrity of trade, and the flow of goods and services. By strengthening trust, we enable nations and their people to facilitate commerce and support sustainable economic growth.


With a heritage spanning over 200 years, De La Rue remains a global leader in advancing security and integrity for currency solutions. We provide an end-to-end portfolio of currency services - from banknote design and secure printing to public awareness campaigns and cash cycle analytics.

Benefits

26 days annual leave exclusive of bank holidays Eligible to participate in our Annual Incentive Scheme Contributory pension scheme (De La Rue pay 1.5x the employee's contribution - employee contributions up to a maximum of 6%, with employer contributions up to a maximum of 9%) Chance to buy or sell holiday as part of our Annual Leave Flexibility Scheme Life assurance at 4x your annual salary Private health insurance Cycle to Work Scheme Subsidised Gym Memberships * Various other perks and Employee Assistance packages