Chemistry Laboratory Manager

Our client, an established laboratory services organisation, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Chemistry Laboratory Manager to oversee and lead its Chemistry Department.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing laboratory operations, maintaining ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, ensuring technical accuracy and quality standards, and driving continuous improvement across laboratory processes.

This role requires a strong technical background in chemical analysis, proven leadership and people management capabilities, and the ability to maintain excellent relationships with clients and industry stakeholders.

Laboratory Operations and Technical Management

• Manage and oversee the day-to-day operations of the Chemistry Department.
• Ensure the quality, accuracy and reliability of all laboratory results.
• Direct and perform chemical analyses in accordance with approved testing protocols.
• Develop, review and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and analytical methods.
• Optimise existing methods and align testing procedures with relevant international standards.
• Monitor laboratory turnaround times (TAT) and ensure certificates of analysis (COAs) are released within agreed deadlines.
• Manage departmental stock, including reagents, standards and consumables.
• Compile new method costings and assist with annual reviews of existing method costings.
• Plan, coordinate and manage departmental projects, ensuring completion within agreed timelines.
• Prepare and present monthly departmental performance reports and operational statistics.
• Identify and implement improvements to laboratory workflows, systems and processes.

Quality Management and Accreditation

• Maintain ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation within the Chemistry Department.
• Ensure compliance with quality management systems and accreditation requirements.
• Prepare, review and implement SOPs and documentation required for accreditation.
• Coordinate proficiency testing and interlaboratory comparison programmes.
• Investigate non-conforming work and implement appropriate corrective actions.
• Monitor repeat testing and identify opportunities to reduce retests.
• Ensure staff competency assessments and training records are maintained.
• Maintain Technical Signatory status for chemical analysis.
• Keep abreast of international testing methodologies and regulatory developments relating to chemical analysis and export testing requirements.

Client and Stakeholder Management

• Investigate and resolve customer complaints within agreed timeframes.
• Provide technical support to clients, including assistance with the interpretation of analytical results.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients.
• Work closely with the Sales Team to identify client needs and new business opportunities.
• Participate in client visits and support business development initiatives.
• Liaise with relevant government departments, regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders.
• Ensure professional, accurate and timely communication with clients.
• Review, validate, issue and archive certificates of analysis and related documentation.

Staff and Performance Management

• Lead, motivate and manage departmental personnel.
• Set performance objectives and conduct quarterly performance assessments.
• Identify staff training and development requirements.
• Ensure employees are technically competent to perform their duties.
• Manage departmental staffing requirements and leave schedules.
• Address performance and disciplinary matters in accordance with company policies.
• Provide technical guidance and support to laboratory personnel.
• Ensure effective communication of business developments and operational requirements to staff.

Project Management and Continuous Improvement

• Oversee projects within the Chemistry, Specialised Chemistry and Pesticides Departments.
• Investigate and implement new analytical methods and testing services.
• Monitor project progress and provide technical support to project teams.
• Build relationships with suppliers, research institutions and partner laboratories locally and internationally.
• Identify new technical innovations and opportunities to improve laboratory efficiency.
• Provide regular operational feedback to senior management.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the relevant departments.

• Minimum BSc or B-Tech qualification in Chemistry, Biotechnology or a related scientific field.

• 5–7 years' experience working in an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory.
• Strong experience in chemical analysis and laboratory operations.
• Proven understanding of ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements.
• Experience in quality management systems, analytical methods and laboratory compliance.
• Previous laboratory supervisory or management experience will be advantageous.
• Experience in method development, validation and implementation will be beneficial.