Plant Laboratory Manager

About This Role

This role manages the quality lab department to ensure the production of safe food compliant with Danone standards and legal requirements, prioritizing product and work environment safety. It drives all lab activities, manages budget and resources for reliable and timely results, and ensures non-conformances are reported and managed.

Responsibilities

• Manage the implementation of testing methods according to Global AE requirements (KARMA digital)
• Implement and monitor quality system according to ISO 17025 and Global AE requirements (QMS, standards, methods, KPIs)
• Achieve and maintain ISO 17025 accreditation status of laboratory and methods as and if required
• Oversee daily lab activities, ensure compliance with control plan, testing protocols, and manage equipment calibration and maintenance
• Manage finished product release according to predefined requirements
• Ensure analytical performance of the laboratory and define/manage KPIs for laboratory performance management
• Lead lab continuous improvement (non-conformities management, internal audits)
• Analyze, review and approve lab results, and communicate reports to internal and external stakeholders
• Ensure proper capability in the laboratory and supervise/develop lab teams, manage schedules, conduct performance reviews, and ensure training and competencies development
• Ensure effective financial budgeting related to lab activities and adherence to operational costs such as labor and consumables

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years in lab operation, preferably in food or pharma manufacturing
• 2-5 years in leadership roles
• Strong leadership skills and ability to maintain impartiality for the lab
• Ability to act independently in the interest of the lab
• Ability to support a 24/7 manufacturing environment

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline (chemistry, biology, food science)
• 5-10 years in lab operation, preferably in food or pharma manufacturing, with 2-5 years in leadership roles

Nice to Have

• Familiarity with ISO 17025
• Internal auditor training
• Six Sigma

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits