Chief Laboratory Operations Officer

The Chief Laboratory Operations Officer (CLOO) is responsible for the end-to-end oversight of laboratory operations, driving strategic initiatives, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and performance across all laboratory units. This executive ensures seamless coordination between departments, optimization of processes, and high-quality, timely diagnostic or research output. The CLOO serves as a key decision-maker and operational leader across clinical, technical, and administrative teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead all aspects of daily laboratory operations across multiple lab locations, departments, and service lines.

• Develop and implement strategies to improve turnaround time (TAT), reduce costs, and increase service quality.

• Ensure full compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP, ISO, NABL).

• Collaborate with medical directors, quality officers, automation leads, and IT teams for integrated workflow management.

• Oversee budgeting, workforce planning, procurement, and performance management of lab operations.

• Champion digital transformation and lab automation efforts in alignment with business goals.

• Implement scalable SOPs, KPIs, and quality benchmarks across the organization.

• Support strategic growth initiatives including M&A, lab expansions, and strategic partnerships.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Operational Strategy & Execution

   • Drive consistent, efficient, and scalable lab operations

   • Align lab output with patient care, clinical trial, or research goals

2. Quality Management & Compliance

   • Maintain lab readiness for inspections, audits, and certifications

   • Oversee internal QA/QC systems and continuous improvement programs

3. Multi-Site Lab Network Leadership

   • Standardize operations across locations with centralized controls and reporting

   • Optimize resource utilization and technology deployment

4. Technology & Automation Oversight

   • Support implementation of LIS, automation platforms, and data integration systems

   • Work closely with CIO and CAO to enhance lab intelligence and interoperability

5. Financial and Resource Stewardship

   • Develop and manage budgets, cost control programs, and procurement strategies

   • Ensure resource adequacy and staffing levels for current and projected workloads

6. Talent Management & Culture

   • Lead recruitment, training, and retention of lab personnel

   • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous learning

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Master’s or Ph.D. in Clinical Laboratory Science, Biotechnology, Healthcare Administration, or Life Sciences

  • MBA or Lean Six Sigma Certification preferred

• Experience:

  • 15+ years in laboratory management or operations

  • At least 5–8 years in executive or senior leadership roles

  • Proven experience in multi-site lab coordination and large team leadership

• Technical Skills:

  • Deep understanding of laboratory workflows, LIS, TLA systems, and quality frameworks

  • Familiarity with clinical, molecular, pathology, and research lab settings

• Leadership Competencies:

  • Strategic thinking, data-driven decision-making, and cross-functional leadership

  • Strong financial acumen, communication, and negotiation skills