Technical Lead - Footwear

Technical Lead - Product Testing
Kettering, Northamptonshire
Up to £42,000 per annum
Full-time (37.5 hours per week)

About the Role
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Technical Lead to join a well-established and reputable testing organisation. This role will involve leading a team within a busy product testing laboratory, ensuring high standards of quality, efficiency, and customer service are maintained at all times.
You will play a key role in supervising technical staff, managing workflows, and supporting both internal operations and external client engagement.

Key Responsibilities
Supervise and support a team of Technicians and Technologists on a day-to-day basis
Manage team performance, including appraisals, training, and development
Plan and prioritise workloads to ensure deadlines and customer expectations are met
Monitor and improve departmental KPIs and performance metrics
Ensure effective implementation of quality systems and procedures
Work closely with internal teams to maintain compliance with industry standards
Investigate issues, support problem-solving, and drive continuous improvement
Liaise with clients, discussing results and providing technical insight
Prepare reports, respond to customer queries, and present findings where required
Support business growth through professional client engagement

About You
Essential:
A-Level (or equivalent) in Maths or a Science-related subject
Experience working within a testing or laboratory environment
Previous team leadership or supervisory experience
Strong organisational and planning skills
Confident communicator with customer-facing experience
Ability to manage workloads and meet deadlines effectively
Competent with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Proactive, motivated, and solution-focused approach
Desirable:
Degree in a scientific discipline

Experience with in a commercial or customer-driven environment
Knowledge of quality systems and compliance frameworks
Background in product testing or manufacturing industries

Experience with business development or client relationship management
Full UK driving licence

What's on Offer
Competitive salary up to £42,000
25-30 days annual leave (dependent on service)
Pension scheme
Life assurance and income protection
Flexible working hours
Free on-site parking
Opportunities for training, development, and career progression

Apply Now
If you are an experienced laboratory or technical professional looking to take the next step into a leadership role, we would love to hear from you.