Regional Head of Laboratories; southwest – Veterinary Pathology Group; VPG

Regional Head of Laboratories (southwest) – Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG)

Location:

On site at our Exeter laboratory, UK with frequent travel to Ringwood and other sites as required. Job type:
Permanent / Full-time; 40 hours a week. Annual Salary Range: from £60,000.00 to £65,000.00.

As Regional Head of Laboratories, you will play a key role in the leadership team, helping shape and deliver the VPG strategy while leading and developing high‑performing laboratory teams across the region.

Provide strategic and operational leadership across regional laboratories, ensuring delivery against financial, quality and performance targets. Drive sustainable growth in line with group strategy, leading complex projects and change initiatives while maintaining high staff engagement. Oversee laboratory quality, QA/QC and reporting turnaround times, ensure full compliance with health, safety and quality policies, and manage resources effectively. Build strong client relationships, address issues professionally, and represent the business at industry events.

Recruit, develop and appraise staff, supporting succession planning and collaboration across the wider VPG network.

• Life Assurance
• Discount platform (supermarkets, high street, cinema & travel)
• 25 days annual leave (28 days after 3 years of service)
• Enhanced absences (sickness and parental)
• Learning & Development opportunities
• Dog friendly offices

• Masters Degree or equivalent qualification or experience (preferably in a Life Science)
• Experience in veterinary Biochemistry and Haematology analysis
• Significant experience managing or supervising a veterinary diagnostic laboratory
• Excellent IT skills, familiar with Microsoft office and LIMS systems
• Experience in leading, developing and delivering a change programme whilst improving employee engagement
• Experience in client‑facing meetings and presentations with excellent negotiation and influencing skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with a variety of stakeholders and employees at all levels
• Excellent prioritising, time management and organisational skills
• Clean driving licence

• Extensive knowledge of the Veterinary community and client base
• Highly motivated and target driven with a proven track record in business development and management