Executive Director – Digital Laboratory Operations

The Executive Director – Digital Laboratory Operations is responsible for spearheading the digital transformation of laboratory operations, driving automation, data integration, and intelligent workflows across the enterprise. This role blends technical acumen with operational leadership, ensuring that digital solutions enhance efficiency, regulatory compliance, scalability, and data-driven decision-making across all lab functions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategic planning and execution of digital initiatives within laboratory operations, aligning with organizational goals.

• Oversee the deployment and optimization of Laboratory Information Systems (LIS), middleware, and integrated digital platforms.

• Champion the adoption of automation technologies, including TLA (Total Lab Automation), AI/ML analytics, IoT, and robotics.

• Drive the development and standardization of digital SOPs, ensuring compliance with CAP, CLIA, ISO, FDA, and other applicable standards.

• Collaborate with IT, data science, quality, and operations teams to enhance lab performance and digital readiness.

• Implement real-time data dashboards, analytics tools, and digital twins to monitor productivity, quality, and operational KPIs.

• Manage vendor relationships and technology roadmaps for lab systems, automation platforms, and digital tools.

• Ensure data governance, cybersecurity, and system validation are maintained across all digital platforms.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Digital Strategy & Transformation

   • Define and lead the digital roadmap for lab operations

   • Identify and implement emerging technologies that drive efficiency and insight

2. Laboratory Informatics & Data Integration

   • Oversee LIS, ELN, LIMS, SCADA, and enterprise-wide integration platforms

   • Enable seamless data flow from instruments to enterprise systems

3. Automation & Workflow Optimization

   • Integrate robotics, conveyor systems, smart sensors, and lab automation solutions

   • Digitize end-to-end lab processes from sample intake to result release

4. Analytics & Operational Intelligence

   • Build performance dashboards, predictive analytics, and digital KPIs

   • Enable data-driven decision-making and proactive lab management

5. Compliance, Quality & Digital Validation

   • Ensure that all digital systems and tools comply with regulatory standards

   • Manage computerized system validation (CSV) and audit-readiness

6. Leadership & Change Management

   • Build a culture of digital adoption and innovation

   • Lead cross-functional teams and drive user training, change control, and system support

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Master’s or Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Clinical Laboratory Science, Information Systems, or related field

  • MBA or Executive Education in Digital Transformation is a plus

• Experience:

  • 15+ years in laboratory operations or healthcare technology

  • 7+ years in senior leadership roles with digital lab transformation experience

  • Proven success in deploying LIS/LIMS platforms and lab automation solutions

• Technical Skills:

  • Proficiency in:

    • LIS/LIMS (e.g., Sunquest, LabWare, STARLIMS)

    • Middleware (e.g., Data Innovations)

    • SCADA, MES, or TLA platforms

    • AI/ML tools and analytics dashboards (Power BI, Tableau, etc.)

    • Understanding of HL7, ASTM, or FHIR standards for interoperability

• Leadership Competencies:

  • Strategic vision, systems thinking, and cross-functional collaboration

  • Strong communication, vendor management, and stakeholder engagement