Vice President of Product Certification and Laboratory Services

Vice President of Product Certification and Laboratory Services

About the Role

We’re seeking a strategic and results-driven leader to serve as Vice President of Product Certification and Laboratory Services, overseeing critical programs that ensure quality, compliance, third-party independence, and innovation in the water industry. In this executive role, you’ll guide the strategic direction and operational performance of Product Certification and Laboratory Services, working closely with the CEO and Board of Directors to deliver excellence and value for our members and customers. You’ll lead high-performing teams, maintain rigorous standards, and champion initiatives that strengthen trust and competitiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership for Product Certification and Laboratory Services, shaping strategic plans and driving operational excellence.
• Lead and mentor departmental managers and teams, fostering collaboration, engagement, and professional development.
• Oversee budgets, performance metrics, and compliance with ANSI, ISO, and Canadian standards; ensure programs maintain required accreditations.
• Develop and implement business strategies to enhance service offerings, customer satisfaction, and revenue growth.
• Build strong relationships with internal teams, boards, clients, and external agencies; represent WQA in relevant committees and task groups.
• Ensure effective training programs, database and management systems, and process improvements to optimize quality, efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to maintain robust certification and laboratory operations, including subcontractor oversight.

Qualifications

• Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Natural Science (Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry) required

Master’s in Business Administration or related field preferred.

• Experience:

Minimum 5 years managing professional staff development programs and leading teams.

Minimum 5 years in product testing and/or certification.

Experience with global sales and development strategy preferred.

• Certifications: Certified Association Executive (CAE) preferred.
• Technical Knowledge:

Familiarity with NSF/ANSI standards and industry standards for drinking water treatment

units, components, and chemicals.

Understanding of ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17025, ISO/IEC 17020, and CAN P 1500.

• Skills:

Strong project and operations management background.

Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.

Ability to manage multiple complex projects and foster collaboration across teams.

• Personal Attributes: Passion for learning and credibility in representing WQA within the water industry.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to implement industry standards, lead mission-critical departments, and make a measurable impact on product integrity and customer trust. If you thrive on precision, leadership, and strategic innovation, we want to hear from you.