QC Analytical Manager

Overview

You will lead the Quality Control function to ensure materials, products and processes meet defined quality standards. You’ll oversee the Materials Testing and Analytical Laboratory across multiple sites, driving compliance and continuous improvement. Collaborating with Innovation, you’ll support new product development through expert testing interpretation. This role shapes lab operations, testing methods, and data-driven decision-making to sustain reliability and quality at scale.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Quality Control team across three locations (24/7 operation)
• Oversee Materials Testing and Analytical laboratory activities and the chemists/technicians
• Drive coaching, training and performance management
• Set resource priorities and optimize allocation
• Develop a service model to support the Innovation department
• Foster a continuous improvement mindset across the team
• Provide Materials Science and/or Analytical interpretation of test results
• Ensure accurate, timely, and reliable testing; approve fit-for-purpose methods
• Follow ISO, ASTM, BSI or equivalent standards and update tests as standards change
• Support customer quality complaints with testing, analysis and interpretation
• Ensure lab areas meet 5S standards and maintain equipment per schedule
• Maintain documentation practices (paper and electronic) for traceability
• Regulate chemical usage and waste management; liaise with external testing providers
• Observe safety, environmental, and site-specific requirements
• Plan equipment purchases and manage budgeting for lab needs
• Schedule tasks to optimize resources and develop a cross-functional staffing plan
• Lead the QC function as a change agent for continuous improvement
• Meet production testing timelines to support targets
• Collaborate with AD/TS and R&D for testing service needs
• Provide scientific interpretation of data and deliver timely datasets for projects
• Administer confidentiality and IT policy adherence
• Plan and support tasks aligned with business priorities
• Authorize procurement of laboratory supplies within budget

Key requirements

• Strong background in Quality Control, testing, or laboratory management
• Minimum BSc in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Physics, Analytical Chemistry or related field
• Experience leading technical and shift teams
• Knowledge of quality systems and standards (ISO 9001, GMP)
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and stakeholder management
• 8–10 years in a materials testing or analytical environment
• Substantial knowledge of polymeric materials (plastics, polyurethanes, rubber) and properties
• Experience handling and testing high-hazard materials (e.g., Hydrogen Peroxide, Peracetic Acid)

• leadership
• communication
• stakeholder management
• quality control systems
• laboratory management
• analytical testing

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