Manager – Laboratory Operations

Shalina Healthcare; Dubai; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pharmaceutical company in Dubai is seeking an Operations Manager for its diagnostic laboratory. The role involves overseeing lab operations, managing financial performance, ensuring compliance with regulations, and driving process improvements. Required qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, at least 5 years of relevant experience, and strong knowledge of quality standards. The position offers a significant impact in a fast-growing business focused on improving health in Africa.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in laboratory operations within diagnostics or healthcare services.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory standards (ISO, CAP, CLIA).
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma or other process improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily laboratory operations, ensuring quality and safety standards.
• Develop and manage the laboratory budget for financial targets.
• Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements and implement quality control measures.
• Identify process enhancements to drive efficiency and quality.
• Serve as point of contact for clients and stakeholders, ensuring satisfaction.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Financial acumen

Communication

Knowledge of regulatory standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related field

Advanced degree (MBA, MPH)

Tools

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

Data analytics tools

Job description

About Shalina Healthcare:

We are one of the largest, privately owned pharmaceutical businesses across Africa (Global Head Quarters- Dubai, UAE) with recent forays across multiple, new lines of businesses including Diagnostics and Consumer Healthcare.

Over the last 40 years, operating across multiple geographies, we have made it our mission to provide quality medicines to those who need it the most. We manufacture and distribute branded prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceutical and consumer products, across a broad range of therapeutic groups, including anti-malarial, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, respiratory, gastrointestinal, nutrition, oral care, dermatology, sexual well-being, and antiseptic liquids & soaps. Leading brands, great teams and a focus on influencing the well-being of people have made Shalina a household name in Africa.

We have a track record few can match, and our brands are among the most trusted in Africa. We are proud of our history and have big ambitions for the future. Our vision for 2030 is to be the health champion of Sub-Saharan Africa. To achieve this, we are looking for the right people to join us and create a lasting impact not just within our company but on the communities that we serve; people who identify with our Core Values and are as passionate about our Mission as we are.

What you become a part of:

The successful candidate will oversee the operational, financial, and quality performance of diagnostic laboratory in Dubai. This role is responsible for leading teams, optimizing processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and driving continuous improvement in service delivery.

What to expect:

Operations Management:

• Oversee daily laboratory operations, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to quality and safety standards.
• Develop and implement standardized operational procedures to enhance productivity and minimize errors.
• Ensure equipment maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting are conducted according to set schedules and protocols.

Financial and Budget Management:

• Develop and manage the laboratory budget, focusing on cost control and resource allocation to meet financial targets.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), including turnaround times, error rates, and resource utilization to ensure financial and operational efficiency.

Quality Assurance and Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, industry standards, and company policies, including ISO, CAP, CLIA, and other applicable certifications.
• Implement quality control measures to maintain high accuracy, precision, and reliability of test results, addressing any quality issues promptly.

Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for process enhancements, workflow optimization, and new technology integration to drive laboratory efficiency and quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support the introduction of new assays, services, or diagnostic tools.

Client and Stakeholder Management:

• Serve as a point of contact for clients, vendors, and other stakeholders in the region, ensuring high customer satisfaction and effective communication.
• Address and resolve client complaints and operational issues promptly and professionally.

Health & Safety:

• Ensure a safe working environment is maintained in the laboratory, adhering to health and safety regulations and promoting best practices.

Essential education, experience & skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field; advanced degree (MBA, MPH) is preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in laboratory operations within diagnostics or healthcare services.
• Demonstrated knowledge of regulatory standards (ISO, CAP, CLIA, etc.) and quality management systems in a lab setting.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets and optimizing resource allocation.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple labs and remote teams.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma or other process improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in laboratory information systems (LIS) and data analytics tools.
• Experience in strategic planning and scaling operations in diagnostics or a related healthcare setting.

Why Join Us?

This is a high-impact role in a fast-growing diagnostics business with strong presence across multiple countries in Africa. You will have the opportunity to work closely with leadership, shape strategy, and build a business that improves lives across the region.

Application:

If this role is of interest to you please upload a recent copy of your CV and a member of the Talent Acquisition team will be in touch. We believe that equal opportunities mean inclusion, diversity and fair treatment for all.