Health Safety Lab Operations Manager (Remote)

We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

Job Description

We are currently seeking a dynamic and experienced Global Lab Safety Operations Manager to join our Global HSE department. This is a pivotal global role that allows flexibility in location across SGS, reporting directly to the Global Head of Safety. At SGS, we believe that great people drive great business, and we are committed to achieving safety excellence across all our global operations. The primary responsibility will be to enhance lab safety performance across various business lines and regions, focusing on key areas such as fire prevention, chemical management, and overall lab hazard reduction.

Working closely with the Global Head of Safety, this role involves the development, implementation, and coordination of comprehensive lab safety programs, processes, and procedures to meet the Group’s Health, Safety, and Environmental objectives.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Assist the Global Head of Safety in providing strategic advice and operational support to all SGS affiliates globally, specifically focusing on lab safety performance and risk reduction.
• Lead the development and dissemination of best practices in lab safety, ensuring alignment across all regions and business lines.
• Conduct thorough assessments and audits of laboratories and support the delivery of the Group Audit Programme.
• Collaborate with regional and site management teams to ensure compliance with SGS’s HSE standards, policies, procedures, and guidelines, with a focus on fire prevention, chemical management, and injury prevention in labs.
• Support affiliates in implementing effective mitigation controls and provide expert advice on lab safety matters.
• Lead and contribute to accident/incident investigations involving lab environments, ensuring that findings are integrated into continuous improvement initiatives.
• Champion lab safety and chemical management practices across all affiliates, driving a culture of safety and operational excellence.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Degree in an HSE-related field or equivalent
• 5 or more years of experience in safety management, with a proven track record in lab safety, chemical management, and fire prevention.
• Proficient in English (fluent spoken & written); additional languages are an asset.
• IT proficiency, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, etc.
• Strong ability to work within and lead diverse teams, collaborating effectively across various levels of the organization.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a confident, resilient approach and the ability to influence and inspire others.
• Proven capability to manage and resolve difficult situations in high-pressure environments.
• Willingness to travel globally as necessary (30% of the time on average).
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex safety concepts to a wide range of audiences.

This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the safety and well-being of our global workforce, ensuring that our labs operate to the highest safety standards across the globe.