Team Lead Chemistry Lab (m/w/d)

Team Lead – Chemistry Laboratory

The Team Lead – Chemistry Laboratory plays a pivotal role in leading a high‑performing team while supporting the Chemistry Lab Manager in the day‑to‑day operation of the laboratory. This position ensures the lab runs efficiently through effective deployment of people, equipment, and resources, while maintaining the highest quality standards and ISO accreditation. Beyond operational leadership, the role is instrumental in driving continuous improvement and innovation. From introducing cutting‑edge analytical techniques to implementing new methodologies, the Team Lead helps shape the future of the laboratory, ensuring it remains at the forefront of modern chemistry while delivering reliable, high‑quality results.

Location: Hamburg, Germany

Principle Accountabilities

• Lead, coach and develop a high-performing team of laboratory technicians, ensuring capability, engagement and delivery against business objectives.
• Oversee day‑to‑day laboratory operations, including resource planning, workload prioritisation and cross‑functional collaboration to meet project timelines and quality standards.
• Act as the technical lead for analytical testing, driving the implementation, validation and continuous improvement of laboratory methods, equipment and processes.
• Ensure compliance with ISO/IEC 17025, GLP, OHSE and regulatory requirements, maintaining laboratory accreditation and audit readiness.
• Review, validate and approve laboratory data, documentation and ISO 17025 deliverables, ensuring accuracy, traceability and data integrity.
• Communicate technical insights to a broad range of stakeholders while supporting scientific innovation, data analysis and external research collaborations.

Skills and Experience Required

• Degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, with at least 5 years' experience in an analytical laboratory, ideally within FMCG or a regulated industry.
• Strong expertise in instrumental analytical techniques, including HPLC, LC‑MS/MS and GC‑MS, with experience in method development.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to lead teams and collaborate effectively within matrix organisations.
• In‑depth knowledge of quality management systems, particularly ISO/IEC 17025, and experience working in regulated laboratory environments.
• Excellent analytical, statistical and problem‑solving skills, with a structured, independent and results‑oriented approach.
• Fluent German language skills, with a good command of English and strong communication and interpersonal abilities.

What We Offer

In return for playing your part in building our future, you will receive a comprehensive compensation package with salary, bonus scheme and further benefits, along with inspiring places to work and collaborate with purpose. Here at Imperial you will have the opportunity to grow and learn, innovate at pace and be part of our purpose to forge a healthier future for consumers.