Director of Lab Operations

JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in the life sciences sector, is proud to partner with InnovaBio Labs, a pioneering biotechnology company, in their search for a highly accomplished and visionary Director of Lab Operations. This pivotal role will be instrumental in shaping the future of our laboratory infrastructure, ensuring operational excellence, and driving the success of our cutting-edge research and development initiatives.

Role Overview for Director of Lab Operations

As the Director of Lab Operations at InnovaBio Labs, you will be a strategic leader responsible for the comprehensive oversight and management of all laboratory operations. This encompasses a broad spectrum of activities, from optimizing workflows and implementing robust quality control systems to managing equipment, resources, and a high-performing team of laboratory professionals.

You will play a crucial role in fostering an environment of scientific rigor, safety, and efficiency, directly impacting our ability to deliver innovative solutions in the biotech and pharmaceutical landscape.

The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of laboratory best practices, regulatory compliance (including GLP, GMP, CLIA, ISO), and a proven track record of successful operational leadership within a fast-paced, high-growth scientific environment.

You will be expected to drive continuous improvement, embrace technological advancements, and strategically plan for future growth and expansion. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a dynamic leader to make a significant impact on an organization dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and improving human health.

You will report directly to the VP of Research & Development and collaborate closely with scientific leads, project managers, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless execution of research objectives and adherence to the highest industry standards.

Your leadership will be critical in translating strategic organizational goals into actionable operational plans, ensuring our laboratories operate at peak performance, supporting groundbreaking science, and maintaining a competitive edge.

Key Responsibilities of Director of Lab Operations

The Director of Lab Operations will be responsible for a wide array of critical functions, ensuring the smooth, efficient, and compliant operation of our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. Your duties will include, but are not limited to, the following:

Strategic Planning & Leadership

• Develop and implement strategic plans for laboratory operations that align with the company’s overall scientific and business objectives.
• Provide strong leadership and mentorship to laboratory staff, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and professional growth.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes to ensure the laboratories remain at the forefront of innovation and compliance.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to define long-term goals and resource allocation for laboratory expansion and technological upgrades.

Operational Management & Efficiency

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of multiple laboratory functions, ensuring optimal workflow, resource utilization, and turnaround times.
• Implement and continuously refine robust operational processes and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maximize efficiency, reproducibility, and data integrity.
• Manage laboratory equipment lifecycle, including procurement, calibration, maintenance, repair, and decommissioning, ensuring all instruments are in peak working condition and compliant with regulatory requirements.
• Optimize laboratory layouts and space utilization to enhance workflow and accommodate future growth.
• Introduce and manage laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and other digital tools to streamline data management, sample tracking, and reporting.

Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance

• Establish and maintain a comprehensive quality management system (QMS) across all laboratory operations, ensuring adherence to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), CLIA, ISO 17025, and other relevant regulatory standards.
• Lead internal and external audits, ensuring all necessary documentation, corrective actions, and preventative actions are in place and effectively managed.
• Develop and implement robust quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) programs for all laboratory assays and processes.
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations, maintaining a safe working environment for all personnel.
• Oversee the accurate and timely generation of all necessary regulatory documentation and reports.

Resource & Budget Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor the annual operating budget for laboratory operations, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficient resource allocation.
• Oversee inventory management of reagents, consumables, and supplies, implementing strategies to minimize waste and optimize stock levels.
• Negotiate and manage vendor contracts for equipment, supplies, and services, ensuring favorable terms and high-quality deliverables.
• Forecast staffing needs and participate in the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding of new laboratory personnel.

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate a team of highly skilled laboratory professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, set clear goals, and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Promote a collaborative and inclusive team environment where scientific integrity and innovation thrive.
• Develop and implement training programs to ensure staff proficiency in new techniques, equipment, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements for the Director of Lab Operations

To be successful in this challenging and rewarding role, candidates should possess a unique blend of scientific expertise, operational acumen, and strong leadership capabilities. The essential qualifications include:

Education

• Ph.D. in a relevant life science discipline (e.g., Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, Immunology) is highly preferred.
• A Master’s degree with extensive relevant experience may be considered.

Experience

• Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in laboratory operations within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or clinical diagnostics industry.
• At least 5-7 years of experience in a leadership or managerial role, directly overseeing laboratory teams and operations.
• Demonstrated experience in setting up, optimizing, and managing complex laboratory workflows and instrumentation.
• Proven track record of successful implementation and maintenance of quality management systems (QMS) in a regulated environment (GLP, GMP, CLIA, ISO).
• Experience with laboratory automation and LIMS implementation is highly desirable.
• Strong background in budget management, resource allocation, and vendor negotiations.

Technical Skills

• Expert-level knowledge of molecular biology techniques, cell culture, analytical chemistry, immunoassay development, or other relevant scientific methodologies.
• Proficiency in applying statistical analysis and data interpretation to laboratory processes.
• Deep understanding of safety protocols and best practices in a laboratory setting.
• Familiarity with various laboratory equipment and instrumentation (e.g., mass spectrometers, next-generation sequencers, flow cytometers, automated liquid handlers).

Leadership & Soft Skills

• Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team.
• Outstanding communication skills (written and verbal), capable of effectively interacting with scientific staff, executive leadership, and external stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing operational challenges.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Strategic thinker with a commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct.

Benefits & Perks Offered

InnovaBio Labs values its employees as its greatest asset. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being, professional growth, and financial security of our team members. As the Director of Lab Operations, you will be eligible for:

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and attendance at industry conferences.
• A vibrant, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities equipped with the latest technology.
• Commitment to work-life balance and employee well-being initiatives.
• Access to cutting-edge research and the chance to contribute to life-changing scientific advancements.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader with a passion for operational excellence in the life sciences and are eager to make a profound impact, we encourage you to apply for this exceptional opportunity. InnovaBio Labs, in partnership with JRG Partners, is seeking a candidate who is ready to drive innovation and elevate our laboratory capabilities to new heights.

To express your interest and submit your application, please visit the JRG Partners Life Sciences & Biotechnology Executive Search practice area page. Kindly include a comprehensive resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and why you are the ideal candidate for this Director of Lab Operations role. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and discussing how your expertise can contribute to InnovaBio Labs’ mission of scientific discovery.

JRG Partners and InnovaBio Labs are equal opportunity employers and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.