Laboratory Quality Manager

What does a typical day in your role look like?

I oversee all Quality Assurance programmes for the VLS Laboratory. This includes staff training and competency, ensuring testing complies with accreditation and regulatory requirements, keeping our standard operating procedures and documentation up to date, and making sure policies are followed. I also manage and lead the auditing programmes within VLS.

How did you get into this role?

My career spans over 20 years across various testing disciplines. I’ve managed a range of teams servicing the primary industry, helping customers meet compliance and regulatory requirements. I started as a laboratory technician and was fortunate to work in a commercial lab that offered opportunities to grow internally and across different testing areas. I progressed from managing small teams to remote sites, and eventually joined VLS in the kiwifruit industry.

Did you need to study for this role, if so, what did you study?

No formal qualification is required, but it helps. I started a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry but didn’t complete it.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I enjoy solving problems and driving excellence. It’s rewarding to see how improving systems and processes can transform both businesses and staff.

What’s something unique, surprising, or fun about your role or team?

Sometimes I feel like a detective—piecing together what happened and why, then helping to drive change and resolve issues. It keeps things interesting!

What advice would you give someone interested in your role or career path?

Take any opportunity to work in a lab in an area you’re interested in. Labs often promote from within, especially for team lead and quality-focused roles.