Head - Operational Transformation - Food Testing Lab

The role will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end operations of the Food testing Lab, ensuring smooth and efficient execution of processes, product testing, and innovation initiatives. This leadership role will involve managing a dynamic team, coordinating cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards while driving innovation in food science and technology. The position will possess a strong background in food science, a strategic mindset, and excellent managerial skills to facilitate the development of new food products testing services.

1.  LIMS Implementation & Digital Transformation

• Lead the end-to-end implementation of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) across all food testing facilities.

• Drive data standardization, automation of workflows, and integration with customer portals and regulatory databases.

• Ensure user adoption through effective training, change management, and ongoing support.

• Monitor LIMS performance and leverage analytics for productivity and decision making.

2.  Operational Excellence & Lean Management

• Deploy Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives to optimize turnaround time (TAT), reduce wastage, and enhance accuracy.

• Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.

• Implement best practices across all labs and align SOPs with ISO/IEC 17025 and regulatory requirements.

• Foster a culture of problem-solving, accountability, and cross-functional collaboration.

3.  Technical & Manpower Excellence

• Oversee all technical operations ensuring highest standards in testing accuracy, validation, and compliance.

• Plan and execute capability building for technical teams, including cross-training, certification, and performance development.

• Anticipate manpower needs and develop recruitment, retention, and succession planning strategies.

• Ensure timely calibration, maintenance, and upgrading of laboratory equipment and infrastructure.

4.  Techno-Commercial Leadership

• Work closely with sales and business development teams to identify opportunities, support client acquisition, and develop technical-commercial proposals.

• Engage directly with key customers to understand requirements, resolve escalations, and enhance value-added services.

• Analyse market trends, competitor offerings, and pricing models to support strategic decisions.

• Drive profitability through optimal resource allocation, cost control, and capacity utilization.

5.  Compliance, Quality & Safety

• Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations, accreditation standards, and internal quality management systems.

• Implement robust internal audit and corrective action processes.

• Promote EHS (Environment, Health & Safety) standards across all sites.

6.  Data Analysis & Reporting

• Oversee the analysis of laboratory results, ensuring that data is accurately interpreted and presented in clear, comprehensive reports for clients.

• Provide actionable insights and recommendations to clients based on test results. Prepare and deliver regular internal reports on lab performance and activities.

7.  Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting

• Proactively identify and address operational challenges, such as equipment failures, supply shortages, or procedural discrepancies, minimizing disruption to lab activities.

• Implement solutions that ensure continued efficiency and maintain the quality of testing operations.

8.  Additional Responsibilities

• Perform any other tasks as assigned by management, particularly in situations of urgency or unforeseen circumstances, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to operational leadership.

Qualification  :
Master’s degree in food science / Chemistry. Proven experience in a food laboratory environment with a focus on technical operations and governance. Experience on laboratory NABL accreditation ISO–17025:2017 and other food governing agency recognitions viz., APEDA, EIC, FSSAI and AGMARK.

Years of Experience : 15+ years of experience in Food Lab Management.

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