Laboratory Manager
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage all laboratory testing, including microbiology, chemistry, and material intake, ensuring timely and accurate results.
* Maintain technician competency, ensuring adherence to approved testing methods, procedures, and quality standards.
* Manage laboratory staffing, including work allocation, rosters, leave planning, and payroll administration.
* Develop, implement, and maintain staff training plans to ensure full test coverage and business continuity.
* Oversee the reporting and review of laboratory results and monitor data trends to proactively identify issues.
* Ensure laboratory information systems are accurate, up to date, and efficiently support reporting needs.
* Review daily results to support efficient product release and minimize quality issues.
* Develop, review, and improve internal laboratory procedures as required.
* Keep abreast of current and emerging analytical techniques and support planning and implementation of laboratory improvements.
* Identify opportunities to improve laboratory efficiency and product flow.
* Manage sample receipt, tracking, and dispatch in line with testing schedules.
* Maintain laboratory consumables and ensure timely and accurate processing of purchases and documentation.
* Facilitate regular team meetings to encourage communication, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
* Ensure laboratory equipment calibration, proficiency testing, and environmental conditions meet operational and regulatory standards.
* Lead laboratory health and safety initiatives, including risk assessments and safety improvements.
* Represent the laboratory function in projects, workshops, and external engagements where relevant.
Key Experience, Competencies & Qualifications
* Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific discipline.
* Minimum 5 years' experience managing laboratory teams in a regulated or quality-driven environment, preferably in food manufacturing.
* Strong expertise in laboratory operations, quality systems, and compliance.
* Highly organised, with excellent attention to detail.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of conveying technical information effectively.
* Effective planning, coordination, and project management skills.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to dynamic operational requirements.
* Experience working within structured systems and processes, with good prioritisation skills.