Tissue Culture Lab Manager

Fall Creek is creating a world with better blueberries through its friendly, collaborative team spread across the globe. To help us accomplish this, we are seeking a qualified Tissue Culture Lab Manager . This position will be located in Paarl, South Africa. The position has the responsibility for overseeing the operations of a tissue culture laboratory, ensuring smooth and efficient functioning to achieve production targets on time, within budget, and with optimal product quality, while maintaining high standards of safety and compliance. This leadership role requires the manager to rapidly identify problems, address them directly, and drive swift solutions through clear communication. Leading a team of lab supervisors, technicians, and assistants, the manager oversees staff development, scheduling, and performance evaluations, fostering a productive and collaborative work environment. ORGANIZATIONAL FIT This position reports to the Country Manager, supervises laboratory personnel, and works closely with other departments domestically and internationally. The Tissue Culture Lab Manager also works with external consultants, researchers, lab partners, and vendors. JOB SETTING Office and laboratory setting. Domestic and international travel may be required. Regular work hours typically begin before 7:30 a.m. and end around 5:00 p.m., with occasional weekend work. The position may require being on-call and responding promptly to urgent matters as they arise. ESSENTIAL DUTIES Oversee Laboratory Operations Ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of the laboratory. Ensure implementation of all Fall Creek tissue culture techniques and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Oversee a team of supervisors and technicians in tissue culture production and media preparation areas. Coordinate and schedule laboratory activities to optimize productivity and resource utilization. Fulfil demand requests in full on time, meeting quality specifications Ensure the successful movement of TC products from the lab to other countries and locations. Secure that quarantine regulatory/certifications protocols, and permit requirements are met. Supervise and Manage Staff Develop a team that provides supervision and mentorship to ensure effective guidance of technicians, assistants, and interns in alignment with departmental goals and skills. Conduct performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback. Coach departmental personnel to motivate, cross-train, and develop the team. Ensure appropriate career training opportunities are provided. Ensure Safety and Compliance Implement and enforce laboratory safety protocols and procedures. Conduct regular safety inspections and address any issues promptly. Maintain compliance with all relevant regulations and standards (e.g., OSHA, local, state, and federal guidelines). Maintain Equipment and Supplies Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and repair of laboratory equipment. Manage inventory of lab supplies and reorder materials as needed. Ensures compliance with laws and regulations for safety and chemical use and that the work performed is conducted in a safe, efficient manner. Manage Budget and Resources Develop, consolidate, and manage the annual budget, including the purchase of supplies and equipment. Monitor and control expenses to ensure cost-effective use of resources. Provide regular reports and updates to the direct supervisor and Fall Creek Management, addressing relevant issues and challenges in a timely manner. Prepare financial reports and justifications for budget requests. Support Research Activities Assist researchers by ensuring that labor, data collection, and analysis meet established deadlines. Provide technical expertise and support for ongoing research projects. Facilitate collaboration and communication between lab staff and researchers. Documentation and Reporting Maintain detailed and accurate records of experiments, protocols, and results. Prepare reports, and presentations, as required. Ensure proper documentation and archiving of all lab activities and findings. Implement Quality Control Establish and monitor quality control procedures to ensure accuracy and reliability of lab results. Troubleshoot and resolve any issues related to lab activities, protocols, or data integrity. Stays current on new developments in plant tissue culture and supports the team on maintaining written Standard Operating Procedures for all activities. Liaise with External Parties Coordinate with external vendors for equipment purchases, maintenance, and repairs. Serve as a point of contact for regulatory agencies, inspectors, and collaborators. Represent the laboratory at meetings, conferences, and other professional events. Promote Continuous Improvement Work closely with the TC Research Manager, TC Technical Specialist, and TC Operations Director. The Lab Manager is expected to maintain strong working relationships with peers in operations, production, logistics, and propagation. Stay updated on the latest advancements in laboratory techniques and technologies. Implement new methodologies and best practices to enhance lab efficiency and effectiveness. Encourage a culture of continuous learning and professional development among lab staff. Leadership and Strategic Planning Provide visionary leadership to guide the lab's long-term strategic goals and initiatives. Develop and implement strategies to improve lab processes and workflows. Foster a collaborative and innovative culture within the lab, encouraging staff to contribute ideas and improvements. Lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to excellence, integrity, and ethical practices. Conduct and lead departmental meetings and participate in other meetings. May attend trade shows and conferences to stay informed about industry trends and vendors. Promote a culture of teamwork, quality, and performance. Ensure a legally compliant and respectful work environment for all personnel in the lab and region. Ensures compliance with laws and regulations for safety and chemical use and that the work performed is conducted in a safe, efficient manner. Ensures the safe keeping of proprietary varieties and confidential information. Supports, perpetuates and enhances Fall Creek’s core values and corporate culture. Assures the highest level of confidentiality on sensitive matters concerning the nursery. Other duties as assigned. REQUIRED EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND TRAINING Requires a bachelor’s degree in biology, plant biotechnology, horticulture, or related field. Requires 5+ years’ experience working in a plant tissue culture lab, preferably working with blueberries or other berries. Requires 3+ years of supervisory or leadership experience with direct responsibility for managing and developing staff. Knowledge and experience with tissue culture propagation methods as well as conventional plant propagation techniques. Requires proven experience in managing laboratory operations, including scheduling, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols. Strong leadership abilities to supervise and motivate a team of lab personnel, including recruitment, training, and performance management. Knowledge of experience working with Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to collaborate with other departments, develop strong relationships, and maintain a positive attitude. Must be able to exercise good judgment and positively influence team decision making, and to support research initiatives and achieve organizational objectives. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to effectively present information in both formal and informal settings. Exceptional organizational skills to manage budgets, inventory, and documentation accurately and efficiently. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues related to experiments, equipment, or procedural protocols. In-depth knowledge of safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, EPA) and compliance standards applicable to laboratory environments. Ability to develop clear action plans and drive processes with many interdependencies. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with strict attention to detail and prioritization. Requires a valid driver’s license and the ability to maintain a valid license plus an acceptable (insurable) driving record. Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work well with people from different countries and with varying English language skills. Must demonstrate professional and ethical business practices, adherence to company values, and a commitment to personal and professional development. Desired qualifications Bilingual language skills in Afrikaans & English. Fluency in Spanish would be to your advantage. Experience with Access or other database software such as SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite. #J-18808-Ljbffr