Relief Manager : Geochem Operations

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company.

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Our 93,000 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

Job Description

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Relief Manager has the overall responsibility for planning samples through the processes and client communication of the laboratory.

Continuous improvement and optimization of the laboratory's throughput according to client's requirements. Ensure that the overall production for the Geochem facility under his/her control is achieved.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Plan and prioritize a production schedule for the jobs/projects in accordance with lab capability and client requirements.
2. Implement and control the production schedule according to set KPIs.
3. Review and adjust the schedule where needed.
4. Forecast and plan for upcoming projects or changes in scope for existing projects and communicate these findings to the senior management team.
5. Ensure efficient collaboration and coordination between relevant departments including procurement, human resources, and management.
6. In conjunction with Section Manager and/or Laboratory Manager, formulate changes, improve workflow and maximize utilization of resources.
7. Monitor effective utilization and supervision of human resources within the department, including training, recruitment, and discipline.
8. Assist with decision-making about equipment use, maintenance, modification, and procurement to ensure production targets can be met.
9. Direct communication with clients daily on status updates on new and existing projects, re-negotiating timelines or schedules as necessary.
10. Prepare and maintain production reports.
11. Monitor and review the performance of staff and organize necessary interventions for improvement on production targets.
12. Ensure implementation and adherence to health and safety procedures.
13. Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
14. Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager.
15. Actively participate in the Laboratory improvement initiative.
16. Manage customer complaints and claims through a systematic approach and ensure that resolution is achieved within the required timelines.
17. Accountable for health & safety procedures and protocols and ensure that these are adopted, implemented in the department, and communicated effectively to all laboratory employees.
18. Accountable for all financial controls and driving the facility to achieve financial targets.

SPECIFIC AUTHORITIES

1. Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or entry to hazardous environments without the necessary knowledge and protection and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
2. Cease to carry on with work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
3. Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when non-conformity is identified.

Qualifications

Education

Minimum BSc Degree in Chemistry or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or at least 10 years' experience in an Analytical Lab – at least 5 years at management level. Qualification in Business improvement initiatives will be an added advantage.

Experience

Previous experience in production planning will be an added advantage. At least 5 years' proven management experience. At least 10 years' experience in an Analytical/commercial laboratory environment. Familiar with SGS analytical practices. Minimum 5 years' experience in customer relationship management. Strong knowledge of SLIMS. Previous analytical and technical laboratory experience is an advantage. Good knowledge of ISO requirements. Expert working knowledge of the mining and minerals industry.

Required Skills

1. Good coordination and proven management skills.
2. Advanced level of competency in MS Office Suite (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
3. Ability to work well under pressure and tight timelines.
4. Ability to prioritize activities and be flexible to adjust to a variety of situations.
5. Ability to effectively coordinate with various departments and levels of staff.
6. Excellent organizational and written/verbal communication skills.
7. Fluency in English.
8. Strong teamwork and project management skills.
9. Results-oriented with a strong performance, cost management, and bottom-line orientation.
10. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to depersonalize situations and focus on business objectives.
11. Energy to motivate a team to always deliver results.
12. Able to work independently and coordinate several activities simultaneously.
13. Innovative with a systematic approach to problem-solving.
14. Acts quickly and decisively; able to make tough calls.