Head of Department - Biochemistry - Dunedin

Head of Department – Biochemistry

Permanent, Full-time

Dunedin

Who we are | Ko wai māto

Awanui Labs Dunedin (previously traded as/known as SCL Dunedin) is part of Awanui Group, the largest network of human and veterinary diagnostics laboratories in NZ. Awanui has laboratories throughout the country and is committed to providing facilities and services that deliver exceptional care to its patients, referrers, and clients. Our team consists of talented and skilled individuals, all of whom play an important role in helping us to be New Zealand's leading provider of quality private healthcare services.

About the role |Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga

We currently have a leadership opportunity for a high-performing Head of Department for our Biochemistry department located at our Dunedin laboratory. This is a permanent, full-time, permanent position of 80 hours per fortnight, reporting to the Laboratory Manager.

To be successful in this role you need strong leadership qualities with the ability to inspire and motivate others, you will have significant Biochemistry technical and operational knowledge, and you will be able to continue to build a positive culture of Service Excellence.

Responsibilities:

• Manage all department operations in line with accreditation and contractual requirements, ensuring effective and highest quality services are delivered to our patients and referrers while maintaining cost efficiencies.

• Lead and engage your team to motivate towards delivering exceptional service of the highest standard.

• Ensure the effective day-to-day running of the department.

• Effectively manage staffing resources, staff reviews, rostering, and leave management.

• Support the professional growth and development of team members by providing technical advice, training, and education.

• Monitor and manage efficient stock control and consumables usage to minimize waste and maintain cost-effectiveness.

• Introduce appropriate methodologies to the laboratory, optimizing processes to enhance service quality.

• Collaborate with staff across the Awanui network to ensure alignment of policies and processes.

• Lead projects to further develop laboratory operations.

• Work collaboratively with the General Manager, Operations Manager, other Regional Managers, Health New Zealand staff and referrers.

About you | He kōrero mōu

To be successful, you will need:

• Registered Medical Laboratory Scientist (Biochemistry) with current APC.

• Strong interpersonal skills; effective team leader fostering positive culture.

• Proven experience leading technical teams, ensuring quality, efficiency, and high performance.

• Experienced in budgeting, KPI monitoring, and implementing positive change.

• 5+ years in Biochemistry with deep lab protocol expertise.

• Exceptional service focus and communication skills.

• Skilled in managing quality systems and Health & Safety compliance

• Excellent time management; able to prioritize and meet deadlines.

• Patient-focused and committed to professional development.

• Proficient in LIS, Microsoft Word, and Excel.

What’s in it for you | He aha mōu: 

Our three core values guide us in creating an inclusive and respected workplace where everyone can thrive and make a meaningful difference:

• Manaakitanga - We Care for each other and the people we serve.

• Whakapakari - We Improve and adapt to create opportunities for success.

• Hiranga - We Deliver the highest quality medical and scientific expertise.

Our laboratory is highly automated and technically advanced, delivering outstanding service for patients and healthcare professionals.

We also offer excellent opportunities to enhance your skills with our in-house Learning & Development team, supporting your professional competency and career growth.

If you are passionate about your work, dedicated to quality and want to be part of a friendly supportive team, please click 'Apply now'

If you require more information contact Kay Jones, Lab Manager -  Dunedin: kay.jones@awanuilabs.co.nz

Application close 2 April 2026