Metiri Group's Next Chapter: A Q&A With Our New Leaders
Metiri Group is stepping into a new phase of growth, bringing together legacy environmental testing brands and modernizing how laboratories partner with clients. We’re excited to introduce two of Metiri Groups’ newest leaders guiding us through this evolution: Julie R. Smith, our new Chief Executive Officer, and Cheryl Bowden, our new Vice President of Operations.

Julie and Cheryl share a belief that internal engagement and external performance are deeply linked. They are grounded in a commitment to excellence, strong operational acumen, and a people-first approach. Below, they share how their professional paths led to Metiri Group, what excites them about the work ahead, and how Metiri Group is positioned to support clients during a period of rapid industry change.
1. How did your professional journey lead you to Metiri Group?
Julie: I have frequently found myself in the unique role of leading companies through times of change. I've led both large and small teams across for-profit education, healthcare services, and private equity-backed organizations. When I learned about Metiri Group, I was drawn to its potential. I saw a critical industry and a company with the resources and expertise to play a leading role as an environmental testing partner.
Cheryl: I’ve built my career leading environmental labs and managing complex business operations across human resources, acquisitions, and integrations. I’ve seen firsthand what’s required to transform laboratory operations while supporting people through change. Metiri Group presented an exciting opportunity to build something better for our employees and clients, grounded in values I care deeply about.
2. What made you excited to join Metiri Group?
Julie: Metiri Group has a rare combination of deep community relationships from local legacy brands, backed by the capital and expertise required of a true national leader. I'm motivated by the opportunity to align strategy and execution, create a culture where people thrive, and define a compelling client experience in an industry that often feels transactional. The team we’ve assembled is capable and energized. That momentum brought me here.
Cheryl: For me, it was clear from the start that Metiri Group is serious about delivering better. The leadership team was already making moves to strengthen systems, invest in people, and deepen client partnership. I’m excited to help transform that vision into tangible outcomes for both clients and employees.
3. What sets Metiri Group apart in the environmental testing industry?
Julie: Our clients need a partner that can move beyond the traditional vendor experience. Metiri Group is that partner. Our teams are trained to anticipate client needs and practice clear communication to deliver fast, accurate, and customized data clients can trust. That data helps them protect communities, meet regulatory requirements, and make informed decisions. We’ve successfully brought together respected legacy brands into one cohesive, high-performing team, which gives us a strong foundation and the flexibility to meet each client’s specific needs.
4. How is Metiri helping solve problems organizations are facing today?
Cheryl: Most organizations today are facing supply chain delays, economic pressures, and tighter regulatory oversight. Metiri Group is a partner our clients can count on to reduce friction by being consistent and proactive. We’ve improved reporting accuracy and turnaround times. We’ve strengthened our scheduling models and systems, so lab teams can work more efficiently and focus on results. We’re also expanding support to field operations, ensuring that lab directors and staff have the tools they need to deliver high-quality outcomes. Our goal is to make it easier for clients to focus on their own work, with confidence that we’ve got their testing needs handled.
5. What’s next for Metiri?
Julie: We’re focused on growth that creates value for clients, employees, and communities. That means continuing to integrate our systems and teams, building a consistent brand, and reinforcing a culture of accountability and service. We’ll be expanding and investing in technologies that make us more agile and efficient. Most importantly, we’re committed to fostering trust and delivering high-quality experiences at every point of the customer journey. This is a defining moment for Metiri and we’re ready for the next chapter.
Follow along as we continue to grow and shape what’s next for environmental testing.
Established in 2019, Metiri Group has focused on using full-service environmental laboratories to deliver testing services to inform the decisions that improve the lives of people and the planet.
In addition to its analytical capabilities, Metiri Group aims to deliver exceptional value to a range of clients, from industrial and corporate clients, municipal water systems, environmental consultants and engineers, and local, state and federal government. Metiri Group continues to strive to be the first choice for environmental analytical laboratory services.