Laboratory Manager

SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 97,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Lab Manager: MIDDELBURG is responsible to plan, organize, lead and control the operation and functions of the MIDDELBURG Laboratory. To support the Area Manager: Glencore to meet business objectives and ensure compliance to the Company policies and business guidelines.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• To plan, organize, lead and control the MIDDELBURG Laboratory Operations.
• Manage and monitor operational performance of the MIDDELBURG Laboratory Operations.
• Responsible for revenue and expense control of the MIDDELBURG Laboratory Operations, in line with operational budgets and the business strategies.
• Set annual budget targets in collaboration with the Area Manager: Glencore.
• Responsible for pricing policies in conjunction with the Area Manager: Glencore.
• Ensure that adequate and appropriate manpower resources, equipment and tools are available for total operational efficiency.
• Effectively manage and continuously improve the quality management system, and the implementation of any certifications and accreditation systems within the business lines.
• Control accounts receivable and DSO for the MIDDELBURG Laboratory Operations.
• Responsible for fleet management.
• Responsible for the effective implementation of SGS QHSE systems, as well as client specific safety standards (e.g. ISO 17025 & NOSA).
• Ensure liaison and technical support to all present and potential clients.
• Assist the Area Manager: Glencore with complaints and claim resolution.
• Assist the Area Manager: Glencore with technical and sales support as well as proposal co-ordination.
• Keep abreast of new trends, current development and relevant research.
• Attend all meetings as per client requirements.
• Maintain a minimum of 75 % scoring with the Glencore KPI’s.
• Perform any other reasonable task as assigned by direct line manager.
• Conduct relevant monthly meetings with supervisors, support staff and employees.
• Conduct monthly service level agreement performance meetings with clients.
• Quarterly client satisfaction surveys to be done with all stake holders.

EDUCATION 

• Degree/Diploma in Chemistry (preferably).
• Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science.
• TQMS qualification advantageous.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Minimum of 3 years managerial/supervisory experience, preferably in a coal environment.
• Coal sampling, sample preparation, analysis and coal beneficiation experience essential.
• Budgets, cost control and evaluation of data and results.
• Client liaison skills are essential.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Goal oriented.
• Problem solving skills.