Quality Manager

About the Role

UK NEQAS for Cellular Pathology Technique (CPT) is a leading provider of external quality assessment schemes, supporting laboratories and professionals across the UK and internationally to achieve excellence in cellular pathology practice.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Quality Manager to take a pivotal leadership role in maintaining and advancing our Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with regulatory standards including ISO 17043, and driving continual improvement across our services.

As Quality Manager, you will be the lead professional overseeing day-to-day quality operations, data analysis, risk management, and regulatory compliance, while nurturing a culture of quality, collaboration, and innovation within the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the lead for the Quality Management System (QMS) processes and ensure compliance with ISO 17043 and other relevant standards.
• Manage, design, implement, and continuously improve quality systems, policies, and governance processes.
• Deliver a coordinated programme of audits, compliance checks, and data analysis, ensuring prompt action on findings and risks.
• Provide statistical analysis and feedback to service users through reports, audits, and KPIs, supporting the development of new specialisms and services.
• Act as the principal quality support contact for UK NEQAS CPT, dealing with enquiries, complaints, and incidents promptly and effectively.
• Host external audits and inspections, develop responses, and ensure timely completion of corrective actions.
• Lead and mentor central and remote teams, promoting a positive quality culture and supporting professional development.
• Manage compliance with data protection and information governance requirements, including GDPR.
• Contribute to strategic planning, business development, and operational service improvement.
• Liaise with suppliers to ensure suitability of materials and oversee tissue inventory management.
• Represent UK NEQAS CPT externally, building strong professional relationships and promoting our services.

About You

You will be an experienced quality professional with a strong background in cellular pathology and quality management. You should be an effective communicator with proven leadership skills, capable of influencing, motivating, and supporting teams while ensuring compliance and service excellence.

Essential Requirements

• BSc in Biomedical Sciences (or equivalent).
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in cellular pathology with in-depth knowledge of modern laboratory techniques.
• Demonstrated leadership or Section Lead experience within a clinical laboratory (or equivalent).
• Extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in Quality Management Systems (QMS), including audits, EQA, and ISO accreditation.
• Professional Registration (e.g., HCPC).
• Strong IT and statistical analysis skills, with the ability to manipulate and interpret data.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and to agreed deadlines.

Desirable

• FIBMS/MSc, Higher Specialist Portfolio, or Postgraduate Diploma in Quality Management.
• Certificate in Extended Practice in Quality Management (or willingness to achieve).
• Experience of hosting regulatory inspections and responding to audit findings.
• Leadership or management training.
• Presentation and delegation skills.

Personal Attributes

• Professional and composed, with the ability to adapt quickly to changing service needs.
• Innovative, forward-thinking, and committed to continual improvement.
• A collaborative team player who supports equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Flexible and proactive in approach, with strong mentoring and staff development skills.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key leadership role in a respected national and international organisation. You will be central to ensuring the highest quality standards in cellular pathology assessment, supporting laboratories worldwide in delivering safe and effective diagnostic services.

We offer:

• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training.
• The chance to contribute to meaningful improvements in healthcare quality and patient outcomes.

Employee Benefits:

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service. Additional day birthday leave.
• A strong focus on staff wellbeing – up to 2 wellbeing days annually to take.
• Access to counselling, health advice, and legal support via Employee Assistance Programme.
• Enrolment in Perks at Work – discounts on high street and online retailers.
• Company pension scheme.
• A values-driven, supportive workplace with opportunities for development and growth.

Closing Date: 31 October 2025

Interview Date: Shortlisted candidates must be available for interview on Monday 10 November 2025.

Apply now

To apply, please click the 'Apply now' link above. For further information, please contact Chloe Atkinson, Administrative Coordinator via email.

UK NEQAS CPT Assessor

Becoming a UK NEQAS CPT assessor comes with a range of valuable benefits, including comprehensive training under the guidance of our scheme coordinators. This opportunity allows you to enhance your expertise and gain accreditation as a qualified assessor within your specialty. In addition, our assessment sessions provide a collaborative environment where you can connect with peers and fellow assessors, fostering international networks and supporting both personal and professional growth.

We are currently looking for assessors to join our following schemes:

• Bone Marrow Trephine (BMT)
• DIF
• Digital Pathology
• Histopathology
• Muscle Histochemistry
• Neuropathology
• Renal Biopsy
• TEM

Location: Onsite, Newcastle - Upon - Tyne

Requirements:

• BSc in Biomedical Sciences and;
• IBMS specialist portfolio or equivalent.
• Professional Registration.
• 5 years post graduate specialist training.
• Extensive in-depth knowledge and experience in the field of Cellular Pathology.
• Substantial practical experience in carrying out Cellular Pathology staining techniques, their technical interpretation, and appropriate modifications.

Apply now

To apply, please click the 'Apply now' link above and submit a copy of your CV and covering letter to Chloe Atkinson, Administrative Coordinator.