Deputy Laboratory Manager

Title: Deputy Laboratory Manager
Location: Midlands
Duration: Permanent

The Deputy Laboratory Manager is a vital member of the laboratory management team responsible for supporting the overall operation to ensure the laboratory functions according to the required ISO 17025 standard in line with Eurofins QMS. This role is key to maintaining a safe, efficient, and high-quality laboratory operation.
Responsibilities:
• Manage the day-to-day activities of the main production laboratory and support the department manager to deliver expected service levels.
• Uphold the health and safety of the team, ensuring that risk assessments are conducted regularly and following any incidents.
• Foster a zero-accident culture through diligent hazard reporting, enhancements, and auditing processes.
• Champion continuous improvement to drive operational excellence and heightened process efficiency.
• Lead the 5S process with the aim of continuously improving the laboratory with support from the improvement function.
• Coach and mentor team leaders to guarantee service delivery, team development, and uphold standards.
• Remain knowledgeable about the Laboratory Quality Management System and ensure constant adherence to its policies and procedures.
• Ensure procedural compliance in laboratory work, sample handling, record-keeping, and the maintenance of worksheets.
• Oversee appropriate staff training and maintain up-to-date training documents including ongoing competency assessments.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment to ensure safety and accuracy.
• Address complaints and non-conformance reports promptly and effectively.
• Cooperate with the quality team to ensure full ISO 17025 compliance and manage quality control processes.
• Take part in external audits and represent the laboratory during these audits.
• Optimize turnaround time (TAT) while managing costs and resources.
• Strategize on waste management and reduction in the lab.
• Oversee team management, including recruitment, training, mentoring, motivation, and disciplinary matters.
• Liaise with the ASM/Customer Service team to ensure outstanding customer service.
• Be the interface for translating customer requirements within the lab.
• Uphold the company's professional image and adhere to the Equal Opportunities and Harassment Policies.
• Understand and comply with company rules, procedures, and notices.
• Act as a deputy to the Department Manager (Production & Technical) as needed.
• Conduct internal audits per the site's audit schedule.

Requirements:
• Degree or equivalent in science
• Relevant lab management experience
• Understanding of ISO 17025, UKAS, customer requirements, audit procedures, and methods.
• Proven experience in target-driven roles, dealing with a variety of internal and external customers, proficiency in IT, LIMS, spreadsheets, and databases.
• Experience in a UKAS-accredited laboratory.
• Prior management experience in a food laboratory setting is desired although not essential
• Ability to effectively present complex information and expert use of LIMS and instrument integration.
• Strong management skills, including performance and absence management, dedication to customer satisfaction, and a commitment to a safe work environment.