Job Title: Interim Lab Manager – Food & Drink
Salary: day rate + expenses
Location: Site-based – UK
Job Ref: HW/00996
Date Posted: 13/10/24
Overview
We have a new opportunity for an experienced Interim Lab Manager to lead the setup and management of a high-quality food and drink laboratory. This stand-alone role ensures the lab meets the highest food safety standards. The right candidate will have a solid background in food science and lab management, with the ability to quickly assess current operations, improve processes, and bring the lab up to full compliance.
The Role
- Oversee the setup and day-to-day management of the lab, ensuring all equipment is installed and up to the latest food safety and quality standards
- Review and map out current lab operations, improving processes for handling raw materials and flavour storage
- Manage lab hygiene protocols, including tracking tasks such as the laundering of lab coats and ensuring compliance with safety regulations
- Take a lead role in managing the storage and interaction of materials, including addressing allergen labelling requirements
- Communicate findings, improvements, and compliance updates directly to senior management
- Engage with external partners to stay informed on industry best practices and regulatory changes
The Candidate
- Strong experience in food science and lab management, ideally within the food industry
- Proven track record in setting up and maintaining lab standards to meet audit and compliance requirements
- A solid understanding of food safety, allergen management, and lab protocols
- The ability to work independently, assess existing processes, and implement improvements quickly
- Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to report directly to senior management
- A quick-thinking, hands-on approach to getting the lab up to spec
