Relief Manager: Geochem Operations

• SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance, and sustainability.

The Relief Manager has the overall responsibility for planning of samples through the processes and client communication of the laboratory. Continuous improvement and optimize the utilization of the laboratory’s throughput according to client’s requirements. Ensure that the overall production for the Geochem facility under his/her control are achieved

• Plan and prioritize a production schedule for the jobs/projects in according with lab capability and client requirements
• Implement and control the production schedule according to set KPI’s.
• Review and adjust the schedule where needed
• Where possible, do forecasting and planning for upcoming projects or changes in scope for existing projects
• Communicate these finding to senior management team
• Ensure efficient collaboration and co-ordination between relevant departments including procurement, human resources, and management
• In conjunction with Section Manager and/or Laboratory Manager:
• Formulate changes, improve workflow and maximum utilization of resources in the departments
• Monitor effective utilization and supervision of human resources within the department/s, including training, recruitment, and discipline
• Assist with decisions making about equipment use, maintenance, modification, and procurement to ensure production targets can be met
• Direct communication with clients daily on:
• Status updates on new and existing projects
• Re-negotiating timelines or schedules as necessary
• Prepare and maintain production reports
• Monitor and review the performance of staff and organize necessary interventions for improvement on production targets
• Ensure implementation and adherence to health and safety procedures
• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager
• Actively participate in the Laboratory improvement initiative. (WCSe)
• Manage customer complaints and claims through a systematic approach and ensure that resolution is achieved within the required timelines.
• Accountable with Health & safety procedures and protocols and ensure that these are adopted, implemented in the department, and communicated effectively to all laboratory employees.
• Accountable for all financial controls and driving the facility to achieve financial targets.

• Minimum BSc Degree in Chemistry or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or at least 10 years’ experience in an Analytical Lab – at least 5 years at management level
• Qualification in Business improvement initiatives will be an added advantage

• Previous experience in production planning will be an added advantage
• At least 5 years’ proven Management experience
• At least 10 years’ experience in an Analytical / commercial laboratory environment
• Familiar with SGS analytical practices
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in customer relationship management
• Strong knowledge of SLIMS
• Previous analytical and technical laboratory experience an advantage
• Good knowledge of ISO17025 requirements
• Expert working knowledge of the mining and minerals industry

• Good co- ordination and proven management skills
• Advanced level of competency in MS Office Suite (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), to perform word processing, spreadsheet database tracking data and written client communication
• Statistical evaluation techniques advantageous
• Ability to work well under pressure and tight timelines
• Ability to prioritize activities and be flexible to adjust to a variety of situations
• Ability to effectively coordinate with various departments and levels of staff
• Possesses excellent organizational and written/verbal communication skills
• Must be fluent in English
• Possesses strong teamwork and project management skills
• Results oriented with a strong performance, cost management, and bottom-line orientation
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to depersonalize situations and focus on the business objectives
• Energy to motivate a team to always deliver results
• Able to work independently and to coordinate several activities simultaneously
• Is innovative with a systematic approach for problem solving
• Acts quickly and decisively; able to make tough calls
• Holds self and others accountable