Laboratory Manager

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing all laboratory sections, including Serology, Bacteriology, Media Preparation, and PCR, ensuring that all samples are processed and tested accurately, efficiently, and within agreed timelines. The role is responsible for implementing and maintaining testing protocols in line with approved quality standards while continuously seeking opportunities to improve efficiency and consistency of the techniques wherever possible. The position also plays a critical role in monitoring Salmonella and other pathogens to support the health status of Aviagen operations and the smooth running of the business. The incumbent is expected to operate with a thorough understanding of and compliance with company Biosecurity, Safety, and Animal Welfare policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the daily operations of the laboratory (Serology, Bacteriology, Media Preparation, and PCR) and ensure accurate, reliable, and timely test results.
• Ensure that all data are maintained accurately and timely in accordance with Aviagen standards and process.
• Monitor Salmonella and other pathogens and provide timely diagnostic support and review laboratory results and communicate deviations to the internal veterinary team for further action.
• Manage laboratory personnel, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, communication, training, competency assessment and employee development to ensure that the lab is resourced with competent and motivated staff.
• Coordinate trainings for new and existing staff, including equipment operation, laboratory safety procedures, and refresher training programmes and maintain appropriate documentation of all trainings and competency assessments.
• Ensure the working practices in the laboratory meet appropriate standards of hygiene, health and safety.
• Prepare and submit periodic reports and annual laboratory performance reports.
• Plan and manage the laboratory budget, identifying opportunities for cost optimisation and continuous improvement.
• Planning and procuring required materials through established procurement process of the organisation and ensure the timely availability of laboratory consumables, reagents, and equipment to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Establish and maintain close liaison with appropriate researchers and diagnostic laboratories.
• Maintain contact with State Regulatory personnel and compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Preparing annual reports, and successful completion and continuation of NABL accreditation.
• Ensure that all laboratory instruments and equipment, including safety equipment such as eyewash stations and safety showers, are functioning properly and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
• Coordinate with relevant teams to ensure timely maintenance, calibration, and repair of laboratory equipment.

Personal Requirements for the Role:

• Qualification: Masters in Microbiology/Biotechnology.
• Relevant Experience: 10 years of experience in microbial laboratory techniques including virology and molecular diagnostics.
• Personal Qualities: Ability to motivate and manage the team, having good leadership quality, ability to run the division on their own, excellent communication skills and interpersonal skills, well organized, being professional and attention to detail, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.