Laboratory Supervisor

About Kerry

About the role

The Laboratory Supervisor will be required to effectively lead the Quality Assurance Team and be responsible for the day to day running of the Laboratory. The role is also responsible for overseeing laboratory sampling and testing, entry of test results (external and internal) and release of finished goods and raw material batches. The role also oversees the implementation and practice of laboratory programs and Food Safety and Quality procedures.

• Reporting to: Quality Manager

Key responsibilities

• Manage, plan and direct the wet and dry laboratories to ensure lab testing provide the highest quality analytical support for manufacturing while ensuring compliance with protocols, GMP and safety regulations


• Direct the work activities of the finished product / raw material to ensure that testing and releas activities are executed in a timely and compliant manner.


• Manage and scheduling/ rostering for Laboratory personnel when required (including weekends)


• Execute and approve all laboratory investigations, sampling, and testing (including customer complaint investigations)


• Review and investigate all out of spec (OOS) finished product and conduct trending analysis to assist in investigations.


• Creation of SOPs where required for training purposes for direct reports.


• Provide leadership, management, evaluation and training to all laboratory employees.


• Maintain laboratory productivity by monitoring workload of direct reports and making staffing adjustments where required.


• Design, develop and implement Laboratory training programs.


• Communicate and supply testing results with the Operations and Supply Chain Team.


• Supervise workers engaged in inspection and testing activities to ensure high productivity testing is completed in the allocated time.


• Oversee raw materials clearance is completed in a timely manner – ensure COAs are received and reviewed prior to release.


• Consolidate and provide accurate data for end of month (EOM) reporting for submission to the Food Safety Team.


• Provide month end reporting data (EMP and finished goods) accurately to Quality Manager and Quality


• Systems Manager by the required deadline.

Qualifications and skills

• Degree in Food Science/Technology or related discipline with atleast 4-5 years of relevant experience


• Working knowledge of food laws must have prior relevant experience in the food industry


• Understanding of product certification programs such as Kosher and Halal


• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written,


• Exceptional Leadership skills with well-developed coaching and mentoring skills


• Building high performing and effective teams.


• Ability to drive continuous improvement and change management initiatives.


• Knowledge of BRC, SQF, WQA, AQIS, HACCP and GMP


• Demonstrated ability to solve problems in a factory environment


• SAP knowledge is a must