QC Lab Manager

A fast-growing cosmetics and skincare manufacturer is seeking an experienced QC Lab Manager to lead its Quality Control Laboratory in Hampshire. Known for its science-backed formulations and ethical product development, the company is expanding its UK operations and looking for someone to oversee testing, compliance, and continuous improvement across the lab function.

This is a leadership position within a modern and quality-focused organisation, offering the opportunity to shape and elevate the lab's role in ensuring product safety, consistency, and performance.

Your role as QC Lab Manager

Reporting to the Head of Quality or Technical Director, the QC Lab Manager will take ownership of all QC operations-from day-to-day lab management through to regulatory compliance and team development.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing all daily QC lab activities, including planning, scheduling, and workflow management.

• Leading physical, chemical, and microbiological testing of raw materials, bulk, and finished goods.

• Ensuring strict adherence to UK/EU Cosmetics Regulation, ISO 22716, and GMP standards.

• Managing documentation, including test reports, Certificates of Analysis (CoAs), and non-conformance records.

• Maintaining lab quality systems-calibration schedules, equipment maintenance, and environmental controls.

• Recruiting, training, and managing QC staff, with a focus on development and performance management.

• Investigating out-of-specification results and implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).

• Supporting new product development through compatibility and stability testing.

• Collaborating with R&D, Regulatory, Production, and Supply Chain teams to ensure product quality at every stage.

• Leading internal audits and supporting external inspections or certification processes.

• Driving process improvement initiatives within the lab to enhance accuracy, speed, and efficiency.

Experience and qualifications for the QC Lab Manager role

The ideal candidate will be a confident lab leader with strong knowledge of cosmetics or pharmaceutical quality control, and the ability to manage people, processes, and compliance in equal measure.

Requirements include:

• Degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Biochemistry, or a related scientific field.

• At least 5 years' experience in a QC role within cosmetics, skincare, or pharmaceuticals, including 2+ years in a supervisory or management position.

• Solid understanding of testing protocols-microbiological, physical, and chemical-as applied to cosmetic products.

• Knowledge of GMP, ISO 22716, and UK/EU Cosmetics Regulations.

• Experience running a compliant, well-documented QC lab environment.

• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.

• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and digital systems to manage testing and reporting workflows.

Perks and benefits

• Join a growing manufacturer known for innovation and ethical production practices.

• Lead a modern QC function with real scope for process improvement and team development.

• Work cross-functionally with technical and commercial teams to ensure quality across the value chain.

• Competitive salary based on experience, plus performance-related benefits.

• Full-time, permanent role based in Hampshire.

Apply now for immediate consideration.
If you're exploring QC or lab leadership roles within cosmetics or regulated product manufacturing, feel free to get in touch for a confidential discussion.