Laboratory Director

Summary

We are currently seeking a Laboratory Director to join our Lab Administration team. This full‑time role will primarily work on‑site (days). The purpose of the position is to responsibly administer clinical laboratory and pathology services at Hennepin Healthcare System (HHS). The director is accountable for personnel and resource management; budgeting, legal and regulatory compliance and laboratory accreditations. In conjunction with laboratory medical directors, the role ensures continuous support in HHS laboratory testing menu, utilization, test development and enhancement of patient care. The director partners with Laboratory Medical staff and HHS in laboratory strategic planning, growth and marketing.

Responsibilities

• Assume responsibility and leadership for the direction and management of Hennepin Healthcare System (HHS) clinical laboratory inpatient, ambulatory and outreach business services. Responsible for the performance of duties required as defined by the scope of service.
• Plan and implement short and long‑term goals in conjunction with the laboratory medical staff supporting the organization’s mission and vision.
• Maintain and monitor laboratory services compliance in accordance with federal, state, local and accrediting agency standards and maintain all necessary reports, documents and records.
• Establish and implement policies and procedures for department/program operations and monitor for compliance.
• Develop, maintain, evaluate and recommend budget, capital equipment, inventory systems, productivity, technology and cost‑accounting systems.
• Establish and maintain laboratory personnel selection qualifications and staffing levels to meet business needs.
• Review department performance metrics, affect changes as needed to improve services provided and ensure compliance with both HHS guidelines and regulatory requirements; keep HHS administration/medical laboratory staff informed of department/program activities, needs and problems; implement solutions or corrections in conjunction with the laboratory medical staff as needed.
• Regularly communicate organizational and departmental information to all laboratory and medical staff; plan, conduct meetings and discussions with both administration and staff to encourage participation in formulating departmental/program policies, promote initiative, solve problems, employee engagement and interpret new regulations and procedures.
• Develop standards of performance, monitor and supervise staff; evaluate performance and initiate or make recommendations for personnel actions, such as promotions, transfers, salary increases and disciplinary action.
• Ensure student / internship programs meet regulatory and organizational expectations and are resourced appropriately.
• Manage projects and system maintenance in conjunction with Information Technology, the Laboratory Information System, instrument middleware, point‑of‑care information system and interfacing connections.
• Maintain department’s quality performance and ensure that the department delivers quality services in accordance with applicable policies, procedures and professional standards in conjunction with laboratory medical directors.
• Serve as a resource to nursing and departmental managers within and across service lines; ensure communication of laboratory service changes or updates.
• Actively participate in departmental and organization‑wide committees as assigned; provide ongoing communication to those one represents.
• Assume responsibility for organizational HHS policies.
• Maintain charging and billing process within the laboratory system and monitor appropriate charges, compliance standards and billing in the organizational system.
• Responsible for the laboratory outreach business in contracting, billing and compliance; foster and support growth, marketing and development of new business and maintain current business.
• Work in conjunction with laboratory medical leadership to develop and implement strategic growth plans for lab services.
• Focus on leadership development and mentoring for lab management staff and other team members as indicated.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in medical technology, business administration, management, or related field.
• Five or more years of laboratory management experience.
• Or an approved equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Clinical laboratory background.
• Skilled and experienced in directing a full business unit.
• Ability to effectively allocate resources (e.g., budget and personnel).
• Capable of assisting executives in defining organizational goals, critical issues, and strategic plans.
• Experience modeling and upholding organizational norms and values, particularly with regards to health and safety.
• Exceptional problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills when addressing organizational issues.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and innovatively while supporting company‑wide initiatives.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate and negotiate with people at all levels.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Management experience in a high‑complexity CLIA clinical laboratory.

Certifications

• Medical Technologist (ASCP) / Medical Laboratory Scientist (ASCP)