Job SummaryThe
Lab Director leads a high-complexity, high-volume microbiological and chemical testing laboratory. This role is responsible for all day-to-day operations including team leadership, quality and safety, financial management, and customer engagement. Acting with a strong general manager mindset, the Lab Director owns the site's performance, including profit and loss (P&L) responsibility, resource planning, and continuous improvement.
Key ResponsibilitiesCore Operations- Lead the lab to deliver high-quality, efficient testing aligned with company goals.
- Conduct daily huddles with operations and supervisors to set priorities and allocate resources.
- Maintain up-to-date technical competence and stay informed on industry developments.
Quality & Safety- Ensure ISO 17025 compliance and audit readiness.
- Champion a culture of quality and safety; maintain sanitary and organized lab conditions.
- Monitor lab equipment functionality and coordinate timely maintenance or replacement.
Customer Engagement- Serve as the lab's primary point of contact for clients.
- Deliver exceptional service with timely and accurate responses to inquiries and concerns.
- Support client retention and growth by exceeding expectations and turnaround time goals.
People Leadership- Lead a large, multi-shift team (40-100+ employees).
- Forecast staffing needs and align schedules with testing volume.
- Recruit, train, coach, and retain high-performing employees.
- Develop supervisors into effective people leaders and ensure accountability at all levels.
- Promote cross-training and career growth aligned with internal career ladders.
Profitability- Own and manage the site's financial performance.
- Optimize operational costs related to labor, inventory, couriers, and vendors.
- Drive productivity and cost-efficiency while maintaining service excellence.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement- Champion problem-solving and new ideas for improving service, quality, and efficiency.
- Serve as a key contributor to Certified Group enterprise-wide projects and pilots.
- Maintain a visible presence in the lab to provide real-time coaching and support.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields.
- Hands-on experience utilizing analytical methods and instrumentation (LC-MS, HPLC, ICP-MS, etc.)
- 7+ years of leadership experience in operations, preferably in a laboratory or manufacturing setting.
- Experience managing and coaching front-line supervisors
- Experience with commercial laboratory testing (dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC products preferred)
- Proven success in P&L management and operational excellence.
- Strong communication and leadership skills, including experience leading through others.
- Ability to interpret complex regulatory requirements and drive compliance.
- Proficient in problem-solving and process improvement methodologies.
