Head - Operational Transformation - Food Testing Lab

The role will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end operations of the Food testing Lab, ensuring smooth and efficient execution of processes, product testing, and innovation initiatives. This leadership role will involve managing a dynamic team, coordinating cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards while driving innovation in food science and technology. The position will possess a strong background in food science, a strategic mindset, and excellent managerial skills to facilitate the development of new food products testing services.

1. LIMS Implementation & Digital Transformation

Lead the end-to-end implementation of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) across all food testing facilities.

Drive data standardization, automation of workflows, and integration with customer portals and regulatory databases.

Ensure user adoption through effective training, change management, and ongoing support.

Monitor LIMS performance and leverage analytics for productivity and decision making.

2. Operational Excellence & Lean Management

Deploy Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives to optimize turnaround time (TAT), reduce wastage, and enhance accuracy.

Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Implement best practices across all labs and align SOPs with ISO/IEC 17025 and regulatory requirements.

Foster a culture of problem-solving, accountability, and cross-functional collaboration.

3. Technical & Manpower Excellence

Oversee all technical operations ensuring highest standards in testing accuracy, validation, and compliance.

Plan and execute capability building for technical teams, including cross-training, certification, and performance development.

Anticipate manpower needs and develop recruitment, retention, and succession planning strategies.

Ensure timely calibration, maintenance, and upgrading of laboratory equipment and infrastructure.

4. Techno-Commercial Leadership

Work closely with sales and business development teams to identify opportunities, support client acquisition, and develop technical-commercial proposals.

Engage directly with key customers to understand requirements, resolve escalations, and enhance value-added services.

Analyse market trends, competitor offerings, and pricing models to support strategic decisions.

Drive profitability through optimal resource allocation, cost control, and capacity utilization.

5. Compliance, Quality & Safety

Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations, accreditation standards, and internal quality management systems.

Implement robust internal audit and corrective action processes.

Promote EHS (Environment, Health & Safety) standards across all sites.

6. Data Analysis & Reporting

Oversee the analysis of laboratory results, ensuring that data is accurately interpreted and presented in clear, comprehensive reports for clients.

Provide actionable insights and recommendations to clients based on test results. Prepare and deliver regular internal reports on lab performance and activities.

7. Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting

Proactively identify and address operational challenges, such as equipment failures, supply shortages, or procedural discrepancies, minimizing disruption to lab activities.

Implement solutions that ensure continued efficiency and maintain the quality of testing operations.

8. Additional Responsibilities

Perform any other tasks as assigned by management, particularly in situations of urgency or unforeseen circumstances, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to operational leadership.

• Qualification : Masters degree in food science / Chemistry. Proven experience in a food laboratory environment with a focus on technical operations and governance. Experience on laboratory NABL accreditation ISO17025:2017 and other food governing agency recognitions viz., APEDA, EIC, FSSAI and AGMARK.

• Years of Experience : 15+ years of experience in Food Lab Management.

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