Chemistry Operations Director

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Chemistry Laboratory Operations is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of the Chemistry Laboratory business across the organization. This role oversees all aspects of laboratory operations, including planning, financial performance, staff leadership, quality systems, client support, and technical execution.

The position directs and supports teams performing chemistry testing and analytical services across a variety of product matrices and industries, ensuring all testing methodologies, processes, and services meet applicable accreditation, regulatory, quality, and client requirements. The Director is responsible for evaluating and implementing new technologies, services, staffing models, and operational efficiencies while maintaining a strong focus on quality, safety, customer satisfaction, confidentiality, and profitability.

This role works closely with clients, laboratory leadership, quality teams, operations, and commercial partners to support growth, innovation, and operational excellence within the Chemistry division while maintaining strict confidentiality regarding client information, projects, and proprietary data.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide leadership and oversight for Chemistry laboratory operations across the organization.
• Meet or exceed revenue, profitability, and operating margin goals established by the company.
• Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction through responsive service, technical expertise, operational execution, and discretion in handling confidential client projects.
• Collaborate with vendors to identify operational efficiencies, equipment solutions, and innovative technologies.
• Develop and implement programs to support new testing methodologies and evolving client needs.
• Maintain current and compliant Quality and Operational Manuals for the department.
• Evaluate and implement new service offerings, including methods, pricing, operational requirements, and turnaround times.
• Optimize labor utilization and staffing deployment to support operational and business objectives.
• Ensure all laboratories comply with company safety programs and policies.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, accreditation, quality, and confidentiality requirements, including documentation and record retention.
• Provide guidance and oversight related to inventory management and equipment maintenance.
• Lead personnel management activities, including recruitment, development, performance management, workforce planning, and compensation recommendations.
• Partner with Customer Support, Consulting, and Commercial teams to support client relationships and business development initiatives.
• Manage departmental financial planning, expense budgets, revenue performance, and operating margins.
• Support Commercial and Business Development teams with technical expertise, client presentations, and Chemistry service discussions.
• Ensure laboratories maintain a clean, organized, safe, secure, and inspection-ready environment.
• Promote open, timely, and effective communication across teams and departments.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding client data, proprietary methodologies, business operations, and sensitive information.
• Perform all duties in a safe, hygienic, efficient, and professional manner.
• Ensure completion of all required company and regulatory training.
• Maintain accountability for personal safety and the safety of others within the work environment.

REQUIREMENTS

• Master of Science degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field required.
• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related discipline preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of management-level laboratory experience required; commercial or contract laboratory experience preferred.
• Experience with laboratory audits, ISO 17025 standards, quality systems, and regulatory compliance.
• Strong business and financial acumen, including budgeting, labor analysis, and gross profit management.
• Experience supporting confidential or client-sensitive projects preferred.
• Experience with analytical testing across various matrices and industries preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience may be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Technical & Operational Skills

• Proficiency with standard business software, Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and internet-based tools.
• Strong understanding of laboratory operations, quality systems, and accreditation requirements.
• Ability to interpret technical procedures, regulations, and operational documentation.
• Knowledge of data integrity, confidentiality standards, and secure laboratory practices.

Communication Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate across all levels of the organization and with external clients.
• Ability to prepare reports, presentations, correspondence, and technical documentation with clarity and professionalism.
• Ability to present technical and operational information to diverse audiences while protecting confidential information.

Analytical & Mathematical Skills

• Ability to analyze operational and financial data and develop actionable solutions.
• Ability to perform financial calculations, budgeting analysis, ratios, percentages, and statistical evaluations.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities in dynamic operational environments.

Leadership Competencies

• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop teams.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Ability to prioritize competing demands and manage multiple initiatives effectively.
• Exercises sound judgment, professionalism, discretion, and integrity.
• Demonstrates business acumen and aligns operational decisions with company objectives and profitability goals.