Laboratory Manager

The Laboratory Services Manager leads the day-to-day operations of a microbiological and/or chemical laboratory, with full accountability for quality, safety, customer experience, people leadership, and financial performance. This role operates with a general manager mindset-balancing scientific excellence with operational discipline and business acumen.

The Laboratory Services Manager takes ownership of site performance, drives continuous improvement, and fosters a culture aligned with Certified Group's purpose: so the world can trust in what it consumes.

• Lead laboratory operations to ensure accurate, compliant testing and consistent turnaround times.

• Own site performance across quality, safety, customer satisfaction, people leadership, and profitability.

• Build and maintain a high-performing, engaged, and inclusive laboratory team comprised of 50+ employees.

• Drive continuous improvement in service, efficiency, and cost management.

• Serve as the primary point of leadership for customers, audits, and cross-functional partners.

• Oversee daily laboratory operations, staffing, and workflow to meet volume demands and service commitments.

• Maintain ISO 17025 compliance and alignment with the Corporate Quality Management System.

• Lead preparation for and participation in external audits.

• Promote a strong safety culture and maintain a clean, organized laboratory environment.

• Manage laboratory budgets and financial performance, including labor, inventory, and vendor costs.

• Recruit, hire, onboard, train, and develop supervisors and laboratory staff.

• Coach and hold supervisors accountable for performance, engagement, and employee development.

• Communicate directly with customers regarding capabilities, results, timelines, and service expectations.

• Identify and implement opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and profitability.

• Collaborate with other laboratories across the Certified Group network to share best practices and support overflow testing.

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Technology, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience leading frontline supervisors in an operational environment.

• Experience in third-party laboratory testing or manufacturing environments preferred.

• Proven ability to manage financial performance and operational KPIs.

• Strong people leadership skills with experience developing supervisors and teams.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to interpret technical, regulatory, and business requirements.

• Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment in fast-paced or ambiguous situations.

Certified Group partners with customers to deliver trusted scientific solutions across food, beverage, and consumer product industries. We are committed to safety, quality, integrity, and supporting our teams as they grow and make an impact every day.