Service Lead – Laboratory Services
Location: Macclesfield
Contract: Permanent
Our client is seeking a Service Lead to oversee the day‑to‑day operational management of an on‑site laboratory services team. This is a permanent role based in Macclesfield, responsible for delivering high‑quality stock management and laboratory support services within a regulated scientific environment.
The Service Lead will provide leadership, ensure compliance with health and safety and quality standards, and act as the primary interface between the service team, key stakeholders, and the scientific community.
The Role
As Service Lead, you will have full responsibility for the operational performance of your team, ensuring contracted services are delivered efficiently, safely, and to the highest standard. You will manage workload prioritisation, team development, compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage a team of 5–10 laboratory support associates, setting priorities and ensuring delivery of daily activities
Provide line and performance management, including coaching, development, and performance reviews
Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, GMP, and local site requirements
Act as the main point of contact for laboratory services, handling enquiries and service issues professionally
Support development, implementation, and reporting of KPIs and SLAs
Plan and deploy team resources effectively to meet operational demands and encourage skill development
Drive continuous improvement initiatives, identifying efficiency and cost‑saving opportunities
Prepare and review metrics, reports, and service data to support performance improvement
Maintain, review, and update SOPs, training records, and compliance documentation
Conduct regular service audits, risk assessments, and safety reviews
Work collaboratively with other service leads, managers, and stakeholders to share best practice
Ensure all training is completed on time and records are kept up to date
Identify, act upon, and report any deviations from agreed procedures or quality standards
About You
Proven experience in team leadership or service management, ideally within laboratory, scientific, or regulated environments
Strong working knowledge of Health & Safety, quality systems, and compliance requirements
Experience managing KPIs, SLAs, and performance metrics
Excellent organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Confident communicator, able to engage with scientists, suppliers, and senior stakeholders
Proactive, solution‑focused mindset with a track record of driving operational improvements
Comfortable working both strategically and hands‑on as part of a wider lab support team
Why Join?
Permanent opportunity at a major scientific site in Macclesfield
Leadership role with visible impact on service quality and operational performance
Opportunity to develop teams, shape processes, and implement improvements
Collaborative, science‑driven working environment
Interested? Let`s talk!
#LI-Onsite
Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
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