Area Lab Manager | East London

Ampath · East London, Eastern Cape

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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.

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.

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.