Director, Laboratory Operations

Purpose:
Markham Campus (MC) will embed York University in the heart of one of the most diverse and dynamic urban communities in the province and country. Reflecting the local economy, academic programs and research will revolve around the core themes of technology and entrepreneurship and how they are driving innovation across all areas of knowledge and society. Challenging the traditions of what a university campus can offer, Markham Campus will act as a unique meeting place for students to interact directly with employers, start-up companies, and community partners from across the region.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Strategy & Administration, the Director Laboratory Operations role supports the academic mission of the Faculties, at Markham Campus, by providing strategic advice, strategic and operational leadership, and ensures implementation of centralized laboratory operations. At Markham Campus, lab operations support programs spanning four Faculties and researchers. The role acts as a key advisor to laboratory operations and strategic planning, regulatory compliance, supports specialized research, and oversees a dynamic team of multi-functional laboratory technicians.

The role is accountable for the effective management, administration, coordination, and strategic planning for related laboratory services supporting research and curriculum delivery. Working with appropriate colleagues in represented Faculties and colleagues, the role provides leadership, strategic insight, and develops and implements strategies to define and direct the needs of the centralized laboratory operations service. The role makes recommendations to the Executive Director, Strategy & Administration on revising/creating operational policies, improving safety and efficiency, improving service levels, streamlining processes to better support research and operations, and implementing best practices as they pertain to laboratory operations.

The role fosters a positive work environment that promotes growth, excellence, collaboration, and student success. The role champions equity, diversity, and inclusion, and oversees staff resources within the unit. The role facilitates effective working relationships, across staff with related functions, to ensure close alignment with Markham Campus priorities, and information dissemination priorities.

Education:
Bachelors degree in a relevant discipline, such as science or engineering.
Workplace hazardous materials information system (WHMIS) training.

Experience:
6 years related experience.
4 years of management experience.
Experience in the development of improvements in operations, procedures, policies, or methodology. Experience directing laboratory operations and leading a team of technicians/technologists.
Experience with profile building and the creation of innovative and successful strategies for a large portfolio in a complex unionized environment.
Experience researching, analyzing, and evaluating new service delivery methods, procedures, and techniques.
Experience in influencing partner groups, providing strategic advice, counsel, and support.
Experience in leadership principles and practices of managing employees, including work planning, assignment, review/evaluation, project management, program development, implementation evaluation and the training of staff in work procedures.
Experience managing teams in a service regulated environment. Experience with mentoring and developing staff is required.
Experience leading staff in a matrixed, unionized organization with at least one collective agreement.