Laboratory Director, Molecular Biology

Director, Laboratory Sciences - Gene Toxicology, Large Molecule, and Molecular Biology

Local candidates preferred, relo is available for exceptional candidates requiring it within the US.
Location: Skokie, IL
Onsite/Remote: Hybrid (flexible) est. ¾ days a week
Shift: 1st shift, Monday thru Friday
Reports to: Site Director

Notes: 13 direct reports and 16 sub-reports. This individual will oversee the three key areas of this facility: Gene Toxicology, Large Molecule, and Molecular Biology . The ideal candidate is someone who is collaborative but also analytical in thinking and is target driven. Last year our client experienced over 40% growth, they don't expect that this coming year but this individual will help cultivate that talent so they can build for the future. There is opportunity for further growth internally.

Formal Title of Position: Director, Laboratory Sciences
Open due to internal reorganization/new role
Hybrid Schedule? 80% onsite / 20% remote
Detailed work hours? Flexible start and end times? 1st shift, M thru F
Education: Microbiology, Bacteriology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or another technical/scientific degree
Culture and Work Environment - Small town feel, culture is very important, team building atmosphere and collaborative.

Job Summary
Oversee the science and business involved in the conduct, direction and execution of Laboratory Sciences operations and studies. Provide scientific direction, oversight, and guidance to staff. Maintain and implement efficient processes and procedures to provide high quality standards of study design and timely reporting. Serve as primary representative for Skokie Laboratory Sciences within Global Laboratory Sciences and in interactions with existing and prospective clients interacting with new and perspective clients. Keep abreast and maintain a broad knowledge of state-of-the art laboratory principles and technologies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

•Provide senior level review of protocols, reports and related documents for appropriate scientific content and interpretation in collaboration with other senior staff.
•Oversee and ensure report timelines are maintained and perform quality assessments to ensure high quality study design and timely reporting.
•Ensure proactive departmental communication to clients related to study deliverables.
•Lead interactions for Skokie Laboratory Sciences with Sponsors, consultants and other outside contacts; interact with government representatives and Sponsors when site visits are conducted.
•Lead and promote new business development for Laboratory Sciences in Skokie as the primary scientific expert for existing and new clients.
•Identify key regulatory requirements and guidelines that pertain to non-clinical and clinical testing and specialty services that we provide.
•Evaluate opportunities for new technology and implement new scientific initiatives to add additional capacity or expanded services in Laboratory Sciences.
•Ensure coordination of study bids, study design and conduct, protocol review, consultant interactions, staffing needs, analysis, and reporting of Laboratory Sciences studies.
•Ensure positive employee relations and that effective communication is maintained to inform employees of plans and progress.
•Contribute to recruitment of scientific management, research scientists and support staff. Interview and select qualified exempt-level departmental personnel. Recommend, review and approve personnel actions, including hiring, promotions and raises. Partner with Human Resources in the handling of disciplinary issues. Prepare and/or approve appropriate personnel action paperwork.
•Ensure that management training and development needs are identified, and programs initiated. Direct the development of departmental orientation and other training programs.
•Monitor performance of direct reports. Provide regular coaching and counseling. Prepare and deliver salary and performance reviews. Review and approve performance and salary appraisals initiated by direct reports.
•Monitor and determine appropriate levels of departmental overtime. Review and approve vacation/time off requests for direct reports.
•Develop short- and long-range operating objectives, organizational structure, and staffing requirements. Oversee the development of a departmental plan for backup and succession of key departmental personnel.
•Develop and recommend departmental budget. Authorize expenditures in accordance with budget. Approve budget and expenses of subordinates.
•Direct the development and communication of departmental systems, SOPs, policies and procedures. Partner with Human Resources to develop and approve departmental job descriptions; ensure communication of duties and responsibilities to employees.
•Perform testing facility management duties for the site as delegated by senior management.
•Perform all other related duties as assigned

Job Qualifications

Education: Master's Degree in a scientific-related discipline required. PhD preferred.
• Experience: At least 10 years relevant laboratory experience in a contract research organization, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical environment, working to GxP (GLP or GMP) standards. At least 5 years of management experience, including staff management and development, and financial responsibility including budgets.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute.
• Certification/Licensure: None
• Other: Excellent verbal and written communication, and organizational skills. Demonstrated independent analytical and problem-solving abilities. Demonstrated knowledge and full understanding of GxP regulatory requirements, site Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company practices, and industry standards. Ability to develop and maintain client/sponsor relationships. Ability to interact appropriately with all levels of employees. Ability to work effectively as a member of a team. Ability to work in a dynamic, detailed driven environment. Ability to apply leadership, negotiation, interpersonal, and supervisory skills. Ability to handle multiple projects, prioritize work and meet deadlines. Computer proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, instrumentation and analysis software.