Laboratory Operations Manager

About the role:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Laboratory Operations Manager to lead and oversee the daily operations of our laboratory. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, maintaining quality and accreditation standards, managing laboratory resources, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to support business growth and customer satisfaction.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the overall laboratory operations to ensure efficient and timely delivery of services.
• Ensure compliance with quality management systems, accreditation requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Oversee laboratory performance, productivity, resource planning, and operational excellence.
• Develop, coach, and lead laboratory personnel to achieve business and operational objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Promote and maintain a strong culture of safety, quality, and compliance.

Specific Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and monitor daily laboratory operations and workflow.
• Manage laboratory staffing, recruitment, training, competency assessment, and performance development.
• Ensure laboratory activities comply with ISO/IEC 17025, quality standards, and company policies.
• Monitor operational KPIs and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Manage laboratory budgets, costs, and resource utilization effectively.
• Ensure laboratory equipment, instruments, and facilities are maintained and calibrated according to requirements.
• Investigate operational, quality, and customer-related issues and implement corrective and preventive measures.
• Review and approve laboratory procedures, work instructions, reports, and technical documentation.
• Support business development activities by providing technical expertise and operational input.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure service delivery excellence.
• Lead internal and external audits and ensure timely closure of audit findings.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality requirements.

Profile

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Science, Engineering, Laboratory Technology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in laboratory operations, testing, inspection, quality assurance, or a related industry.
• Minimum 3 years of people management experience in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Experience managing accredited laboratory operations and quality management systems.
• Strong understanding of laboratory workflows, testing processes, and operational management.

Requirements

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Good knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 and laboratory accreditation requirements.
• Proven ability to manage laboratory operations, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead teams in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Strong customer focus and service-oriented mindset.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and laboratory management systems.
• Ability to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives.
• Strong commitment to quality, safety, and compliance standards.