Section Manager: Client Liaison, Admin and Logistics

SGS; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 65 000 - 75 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading testing and certification company in South Africa is seeking a Laboratory Manager to oversee frontline services in an analytical laboratory. This role requires a strong background in client communication, financial management, and staff training. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in an analytical laboratory and client services. Responsibilities include managing project execution, compliance with quality systems, and ensuring effective communication with clients. Competitive package offered.

Qualifications

• 5 years of senior technical experience in an analytical laboratory.
• 5 years of Client Services experience.
• Financial knowledge is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead frontline services of the analytical laboratory.
• Manage client liaison and compliance.
• Oversee procurement and transportation controls.
• Motivate and train staff.

Skills

Client communication

Technical decision-making

Financial management

Staff training

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, lead, and control the frontline services of the analytical laboratory, Client liaison, Logistics and Financial administration.
• Overseeing the client liaison function in line with:
• Leading in effective communication with clients.
• Correct interpretation, understanding and issuing of the client’s quotes.
• Quotes acceptance follow up.
• Effective attendance to client’s queries/enquiries within reasonable time.
• Drive the division’s activities, by making timely technical decisions with regard to reaching the clients objectives.
• Intermediate and post campaign follow up on the services rendered.
• Coordination and consolidation of incoming projects.
• Communication with the Operations Manager on incoming projects.
• Develop and implement internal framework, processes, and procedures for the effective performance, thereby ensuring control of costs, income, quality, and productivity.
• Accountable for correct reporting, invoicing, and quotations. Ensure all functions are correct and on time.
• Generate and provide data for management. (Financial stats, sample volumes, clientele database).
• Assist management with respect to costing/pricing of activities, including the application of principles applicable to the determination of factors to be used for cost/price determination.
• In conjunction with the Production Planning Manager make an assessment and analysis of project financial viability.
• Assist the Contract Review Manager with annual price increase systems, thereby ensuring prompt communication and consistent application.
• Oversee the control, handling, and administration of age analysis.
• Oversee the procurement function rendered in the division.
• Oversee the control and handling of transportation.
• Manage compliance and maintenance to all QESH system in the division.
• Accountable for the staff complement in the section. Assist with staff challenges, motivate staff, assess training needs, and ensure they are addressed, promote competence, and manage staff performance.
• Ensure all staff are trained and multi-skilled throughout the section.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager.

Qualifications

Education

• Degree or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry and/or proven years of laboratory, knowledge, skills and experience sufficient to be recognized as a qualification through – Recognition of Prior Learning
• Qualification in Business Administration will be an added advantage

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years’ senior technical experience in an analytical laboratory environment.
• Minimum of 5 years’ Client Services background
• Financial background will be an advantage