Job Description

General Manager Laboratory Operations
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General Information

Date Published
03-Nov-2025
Advertising Ends
23-Nov-2025
ID#
13779
Role Type
General Management
Work Type
Permanent Full-Time
Workplace Type
Hybrid
Country
New Zealand
Location
Hamilton & North Waikato
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Position Description

Our Co-operative

Ata whakaarohia t? ?p?p? | Imagine Tomorrow with Us

At Te M?t?puna Fonterra, we want everyone to feel they can be themselves.

Whether you're early in your career or ready for your next step, Fonterra offers a unique opportunity to grow with a global dairy co-operative that values care, collaboration, and contribution.

Owned by New Zealand dairy farmers and supported by a dedicated team, we are all working together to create a better future. Imagine tomorrow with us, where your career can grow, and you can create positive change.

He kupu m? m?tou | About us

Step into the dynamic world of Fonterra's COO business unit where our teams contribute to our NZ manufacturing site and global supply chain operations, help uphold technical excellence and work with our global safety, quality and regulatory teams.

M? t?nei t?ranga | About the Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven GM- Lab Operations. This position is a key member of our Food Safety, Quality and Regulatory lead team leading the National Laboratory function ensuring Technical, Quality and Service requirements are met while maintaining cost efficiencies and full accreditation.



This role drives the National Laboratory strategy while being responsible for supporting the achievement of sustainable and profitable performance. Leading, mentoring and coaching the Laboratory teams and business to deliver quality test results and improvement services to the COO business through regional Laboratory performance.

Key Responsibilities include

Lead the deployment of the National Operations Laboratories strategy and align strategic decisions to organizational goals. Oversee and manage all aspects of laboratory operations, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to regulatory standards. Develop and implement strategies for continuous improvement, performance management, and operational optimization. Direct budget preparation, forecasting, and resource allocation to meet operational goals while ensuring cost efficiency. Manage and inspire a multidisciplinary team, promoting a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional development. Ensure adherence to all industry regulations and quality standards, including ISO, GLP, and other applicable certifications Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, and regulatory bodies. Lead innovation initiatives, drive new technology adoption, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

M?u | About You Tertiary qualification in science, food technology, or a relevant discipline (Master's preferred).

A strong understanding of the wider COO business. Substantial experience (15+ years) in a senior leadership role, with a strong understanding of laboratory management and operations. Strategic and business management experience (10+ years) with a proven ability to align operations with organizational goals. Executional excellence and operational management expertise (7+ years). Outstanding relationship building and stakeholder management skills. Strong background in regulatory requirements, quality assurance/quality control, and compliance standards. Demonstrated experience in managing multidisciplinary teams, driving staff engagement, and creating and maintaining a collaborative work environment. Exceptional analytical, strategic planning, and decision-making skills. Ability to manage challenging priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver outcomes effectively

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Ng? Aura | Our Values

At Fonterra, our values of Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, are for everyone - no matter your background, identify or experience. These values guide us in delivering exceptional outcomes for our farmers, customers, communities, and each other. Discover how your values align with ours by taking our Values Quiz

T? m?tou oati | Our Commitment to You

We care for our people globally. Our comprehensive benefits support your well-being, development, and work-life balance:Fair and equitable pay Health and well-being programs (medical, mental health support) Professional development opportunities Career growth support Work-life balance options (flexible/hybrid working where possible) Employee recognition Support for community involvement and cultural connection

Ng? Mahi | A Career of Opportunities

At Te M?t?puna Fonterra, we are inspired by purpose and guided by our principles and values. Together, we create goodness for generations and make a global impact at a local level. As part of our Co-operative, you are an everyday creator, imagining what Fonterra, dairy, and you can be here.

T?tou T?tou | Join Us

Does this sound good to you? Come join our wh?nau - bring your whole self, and let's solve for better together.

You, me, us together, T?tou, t?tou.

He W?hi m? te Katoa | Together, we're shaping a future of inclusion.

Inclusion is key to our Co-operative. We're building a team that reflects the diverse world we live in, believing it drives better decisions and innovation.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds (ethnicities, genders, identities, orientations, ages, abilities, neurotypes, cultures, religions).

Even if you don't meet every requirement listed, we encourage you to apply; we value your potential and growth.

If you face accessibility issues or need accommodations during the process, please contact your recruiter. We ensure fair participation, allowing you to be at your best. T?tou, t?tou.

Applications close at midnight on

Sunday 23rd November