Area Lab Manager | East London

What You Will Do:

Operations Management & Process Improvement

• Lead and manage the operations of multiple laboratories to ensure alignment with business objectives and performance targets.
• Drive the implementation of organisational strategies, policies, and operational processes across the laboratory cluster.
• Ensure quality management systems are effectively implemented, maintained, and continuously improved.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and implement innovative, approved solutions that enhance productivity, improve service delivery, and optimise costs.
• Monitor quality reports and ensure corrective actions are implemented promptly and effectively.
• Support laboratories during internal and external audits, ensuring compliance with quality and accreditation requirements.

Budget & Financial Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor cluster budgets to ensure effective financial control and resource allocation.
• Analyse and report on profitability, growth, expenditure, and capital investment within the cluster.
• Drive financial sustainability through cost optimisation initiatives and revenue-enhancing opportunities.
• Monitor financial performance trends and assist in implementing corrective actions to achieve profitability objectives.
• Guide laboratory leaders in managing operational budgets and identifying efficiencies.
• Ensure compliance with BCEA requirements through effective workforce planning and overtime management.
• Compile quarterly performance reports aligned to strategic and operational objectives.

Leadership & People Development

• Foster a high-performance culture that promotes accountability, collaboration, and service excellence.
• Mentor, coach, and develop Technical Leads to strengthen leadership capability and business acumen.
• Communicate strategic and operational goals effectively, ensuring alignment across laboratories.
• Drive performance management, employee engagement, and professional development initiatives.
• Build a positive and inclusive work environment that supports employee wellbeing and growth.
• Support succession planning initiatives by identifying and developing future leaders within the business.

People Management

• Oversee recruitment and selection activities in line with organisational policies and employment equity objectives.
• Ensure adequate staffing levels and effective resource allocation across laboratories.
• Manage workforce planning and replacement needs within approved labour budgets.
• Collaborate with People Partners and Area Management on salary recommendations and talent decisions.
• Maintain oversight of leave management and key human capital processes.
• Lead disciplinary investigations and inquiries when required and support leaders in managing employee relations matters.

Reporting & Stakeholder Management

• Prepare and submit monthly operational, quality, and financial performance reports.
• Investigate performance variances and recommend practical solutions to improve outcomes.
• Maintain strong relationships and regular communication with Technical Leads and key stakeholders.
• Ensure laboratories remain aligned with organisational priorities and business unit objectives.

What You Bring:

Qualifications:

• Relevant Medical Technology qualification and/or certification.
• Current HPCSA registration.
• Management qualification or certification will be advantageous.

Experience:

• 3+ years' experience as a Technical Lead or in a similar leadership role within a pathology laboratory environment.
• Proven experience managing people, quality systems, operational performance, and departmental expenses.
• Up to 6 years' laboratory experience within a pathology environment.

Knowledge & Skills:

Technical & Regulatory Knowledge

• Sound knowledge of HPCSA regulations.
• Understanding of BCEA, Employment Equity Act, and Occupational Health and Safety legislation.
• Knowledge of laboratory accreditation processes, standards, and quality management systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Leadership & People Management

• Strong understanding of people management practices, including coaching, performance management, employee development, and team leadership.
• Ability to motivate teams and create a productive, high-performance environment.

Financial & Business Acumen

• Sound understanding of budgeting, financial planning, expense management, and reporting.
• Ability to analyse financial information and implement cost-effective solutions.
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of factors influencing laboratory performance and profitability.

Communication & Computer Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to effectively utilise computer technology and digital systems to support business operations.

Numerical & Analytical Skills

• Strong numerical reasoning and analytical capabilities.
• Ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make informed operational and financial decisions.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Results-driven with exceptional organisational and decision-making skills.
• Customer-focused with a commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Ability to build strong stakeholder relationships and lead effectively in a dynamic environment.