Laboratory Director - Research Services

As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 27 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.

If you want to contribute to an inspiring long‑term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high‑value market with significant build‑up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment,
join us!

We are looking for a Laboratory Director – Research Services in 3600 Eagle Nest Dr, Crete, IL 60417 USA. Your mission will be to:

The incumbent oversees and directs all activities of Merieux Nutri Sciences' Crete, Food science Center business unit operations to ensure technical competency, profitability, sales growth, and high levels of client satisfaction by providing timely, scientific accuracy, and reliable services.

Direct and monitor Crete Food Science Center operations in support of corporate objectives in areas such as client satisfaction, scientific integrity, quality improvement, business growth, profitability, employee competence and satisfaction, risk reduction, etc. Develop corrective action plans to improve performance or address deficiencies.

Develop and maintain a working climate that fosters corporate culture goals. Promote Merieux Nutri Sciences' image and culture in all interactions with employees, clients, professional organizations, vendors, industry personnel, and the public at large.

Plan, develop, and participate in client service and business development activities (sales & marketing) to improve customer satisfaction and grow the business.

Provide technical, managerial, and administrative guidance and expertise to assigned personnel. Responsibilities include providing direction, evaluating results, monitoring wages, evaluating performance, hiring and developing employees.

Develop and maintain personal expertise in business and technical areas such as emerging technologies, scientific and industry trends, and regulatory requirements of importance to the company. Create and maintain professional standing and image of the company through participation in industry professional associations.

This position has the responsibility and authority to initiate action to prevent or minimize departures from the quality system or operating procedures. This authority includes addressing resource needs to properly address issues such as client turn‑around time requirements, overtime limits, employee turnover, work stoppage and assure the appropriate type and amount of materials are ready and available for use.

Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process.

Perform other related duties as needed.

Frequent contact is maintained with clients to develop and expand the business, explain services and deliverables, and business unit processes. Frequent contact with corporate management is necessary to discuss operational performance, customer situations, personnel issues, and operational planning. Frequent contact with all business unit personnel and regular contact with management personnel from other divisions is required to standardize services, exchange client and competition information, and discuss results.

Occasional contact with industry personnel, professional organizations, and government officials is necessary to represent Merieux Nutri Sciences and keep abreast of industry trends and issues.

This position requires advanced knowledge of food microbiology, food chemistry or food science possibly obtained from an advanced degree in a technical field identified above or from substantial experience within the food industry, to provide technical and industry guidance to clients and assigned personnel. 10 years of relevant work experience including management experience. Knowledge of food chemistry and food science. A thorough knowledge of laboratory…