Manager, Laboratory

We are looking for an experienced Laboratory Manager to lead and manage the safe, efficient and high-quality operation of HRC’s Main Laboratory. The role is responsible for laboratory performance, technical standards, ISO 17025 compliance, people development, equipment reliability and customer satisfaction.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and manage laboratory operations in compliance with HSE requirements, company procedures and applicable laws and regulations.
• Ensure high-quality, accurate and reliable laboratory analytical services to internal and external customers.
• Drive compliance with and continuous improvement of the ISO 17025 management system.
• Manage laboratory manpower, competency, performance, recruitment, motivation and development.
• Oversee laboratory technical matters, including product quality complaints, test methods and laboratory equipment requirements.
• Ensure laboratory equipment availability, utilization, preventive maintenance and breakdown management.
• Develop and maintain a 5-year laboratory investment plan for equipment and infrastructure requirements.
• Manage laboratory contracts and Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Advise on appropriate test methods for product supply specifications and liaise with government authorities, other departments and third parties.
• Prepare and manage laboratory OPEX within the approved annual budget.
• Ensure emergency preparedness, including Pre-Incident Plans (PIPs) and regular emergency drills.
• Participate in the refinery emergency duty roster.

KEY CHALLENGES

• Maintain a high professional and technical standard in line with stringent laboratory accreditation requirements.
• Ensure the laboratory delivers high-quality services comparable with leading industry laboratories.
• Maintain optimum manpower levels while ensuring operational efficiency.
• Ensure laboratory facilities and equipment remain fit for purpose and that employees are adequately trained and competent.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant laboratory experience, preferably in the oil & gas, petroleum, refining or chemical industry.
• Proven experience in leading and managing a team.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory operations, refinery products and process streams.
• Good understanding of ISO 17025 accreditation requirements.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 requirements.
• Strong laboratory safety knowledge.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Good computer skills.
• Strong focus on people development and team performance.