Laboratory Manager

Job Summary

• LS Scientific is seeking an experienced Laboratory Manager to lead and oversee its Chemistry and Microbiology laboratory operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for technical quality, staff management, laboratory performance, regulatory compliance and the development of efficient, customer-focused testing services.
• We are looking for a technically strong and commercially aware professional with proven laboratory leadership experience and a sound understanding of ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Chemistry and Microbiology laboratories.
• Supervise, develop and assess laboratory staff, ensuring appropriate training and technical competency.
• Plan workloads, allocate resources and monitor productivity, turnaround times and service delivery.
• Maintain and improve laboratory quality management systems in line with ISO/IEC 17025 and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Oversee testing methods, method verification and validation, quality control and technical documentation.
• Review analytical results and reports, ensuring accuracy, reliability and appropriate authorisation.
• Coordinate internal and external audits, corrective actions and accreditation activities.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is properly maintained, calibrated and fit for purpose.
• Monitor consumables, reagents, stock levels and laboratory expenditure.
• Support budgeting, cost control, profitability and the efficient use of laboratory resources.
• Investigate non-conformities, customer complaints and technical issues, implementing appropriate corrective actions.
• Work with management and commercial teams to develop testing services and identify new business opportunities.
• Promote safe working practices and compliance with laboratory health, safety and environmental requirements.

Requirements

• BSc or MSc in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Industrial Chemistry or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 - 7 years' relevant laboratory experience, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or management position.
• Demonstrable experience managing laboratory operations, technical staff and quality systems.
• Strong working knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025, quality assurance, audits and accreditation requirements.
• Practical understanding of analytical testing, method validation and laboratory quality control.
• Experience with analytical instrumentation such as HPLC, GC, UV-Vis, FTIR, AAS, ion chromatography and titration equipment.
• Strong leadership, organisation, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent technical reporting, communication and documentation skills.
• Commercial awareness, including an understanding of laboratory costs, productivity and turnaround times.
• Membership of the relevant professional body and a valid practising licence or professional authorisation, where applicable, are strong advantages.