Section Manager: Client Liaison, Admin and Logistics

SGS; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic leader to oversee the analytical laboratory's frontline services. This role involves managing client relationships, ensuring effective communication, and driving division activities to meet client objectives. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in analytical chemistry and client services, with a focus on financial administration. Join a global leader in testing and certification, where your contributions will help create a better, safer, and interconnected world.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of senior technical experience in an analytical laboratory environment.
• Experience in client services and financial administration is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead frontline services of the analytical laboratory and manage client liaison.
• Ensure compliance with QESH systems and manage staff performance.

Skills

Analytical Chemistry

Client Liaison

Financial Administration

Project Management

Communication Skills

Education

Degree or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry

Qualification in Business Administration

Job description

Company Description

We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. Our 97,000 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and interconnected world.

Job Description

• Planning, organizing, leading, and controlling the frontline services of the analytical laboratory, client liaison, logistics, and financial administration.
• Overseeing the client liaison function in line with:
• Leading effective communication with clients.
• Correct interpretation, understanding, and issuing of client quotes.
• Follow-up on quote acceptance.
• Promptly addressing client queries and enquiries.
• Driving division activities by making timely technical decisions to meet client objectives.
• Following up on services rendered during and after campaigns.
• Coordinating and consolidating incoming projects.
• Communicating with the Operations Manager about incoming projects.
• Developing and implementing internal frameworks, processes, and procedures to ensure effective performance, cost control, quality, and productivity.
• Ensuring accurate and timely reporting, invoicing, and quotations.
• Generating management data such as financial statistics, sample volumes, and client databases.
• Assisting management with cost and pricing strategies, including applying principles for cost/price determination.
• Collaborating with the Production Planning Manager to assess and analyze project financial viability.
• Supporting the Contract Review Manager with annual price increase systems to ensure timely communication and consistency.
• Managing age analysis, procurement, and transportation functions within the division.
• Maintaining compliance with and the upkeep of all QESH systems in the division.
• Managing staff in the section, addressing staff challenges, motivating, assessing training needs, and promoting competence and performance.
• Ensuring staff are trained and multi-skilled.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the line manager.

Qualifications

Education

• Degree or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or equivalent recognized through Recognition of Prior Learning.
• Qualification in Business Administration is an advantage.

Experience

• At least 5 years of senior technical experience in an analytical laboratory environment.
• At least 5 years of client services experience.
• Financial experience is an advantage.