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.

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.

We are looking for an experienced and people‑focused PreparationManager 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 Preparation 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

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

What You’ll Bring

Essential

• 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

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.