Reference Laboratory Manager - RCI

Working as part of the senior team in one of NHSBT’s seven Red Cell Immunohaematology labs, you will lead on response to the changing requirements of customer hospitals through the provision of state-of-the-art, cost-effective, and clinically appropriate diagnostics. You will look to continuously improve processes and performance on both locally and nationally.

Our Liverpool and Filton labs work with a wide and varied patient mix, including the investigation of rare antibody specificities. In addition to learning advanced serological techniques including genotyping and flow cytometry, you will work on rare and unique cases. You will also consult with the International Blood Group Reference Laboratory (IBGRL) on our most complex cases. This is pioneering work, where you will publicise and present your findings at national meetings and or events.

This is an opportunity to advance your management skills and deepen your expertise by providing complex diagnostic and blood donation selection activities with the support of expert teams and advanced technology.

Main duties

The primary role is to deliver, under the direction of the RCI Laboratory Head and RCI service operations Lead a service that meets the needs of NHS customers within a region served by an RCI Laboratory. Your responsibilities will include:

• Following the leadership of the RCI Operations Lead and the process improvement Manager instil a culture of lean working and putting the customer first at every level in the laboratory.
• Managing RCI operations for a specific location to include delivery of services and management of RCI Laboratory staff in accordance with RCI & NHSBT protocols.
• Be responsible for ensuring that Quality incidents are reported, monitored and determined to root cause in line with NHSBT procedures.
• Assisting the Laboratory head in ensuring that the Laboratory operates on a financially sustainable basis.
• Maintaining advanced scientific and clinical competencies in transfusion related diagnostics.
• Acting as the first line reference for staff on scientific and technical issues.
• Developing a motivated, competent and empowered workforce.
• Deputising for the Head of Laboratory as required and leading on staff training and HR requirements.

You will be required to provide cover during operational emergencies.

About You

Experience and Knowledge

• In depth understanding of relevant policies, standards and guidelines affecting laboratory practice e.g. Good Manufacturing Practice, Good Laboratory Practice, Clinical Pathology Accreditation UKBTS and BCSH and other relevant or statutory guidelines.
• In depth knowledge of Transfusion Science and all aspects of Red Cell Immunohaematology and associated technical skills.
• Experience of selection, training, development, and motivation of staff and working with a range of HR policies & procedures.
• An experienced manager with experience of working within NHS or UK public health environment.
• Experience of validation of equipment and processes, research, and development.
• Experience of target setting and performance review.
• Experience of working with Information Technology using Microsoft Office packages (Word, Excel and PowerPoint).

Qualifications and Training

• Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC) registered Biomedical Scientist (which must be maintained).
• MSc in transfusion/transplantation or relevant science and/or FIBMS. OR equivalent specialist knowledge gained post B.Sc.
• Basic Management qualification or attendance at short courses.
• Demonstrates commitment to own continued professional development (CPD).

What we offer:

• A starting salary of £53,755 - £60,504 per annum in accordance with AfC.
• 2x full time 24 months fixed term or secondment opportunity to join as a Band 8a, and progress with NHSBT.
• Opportunity to work with a national organisation and be based in Bristol or Liverpool.
• We promote flexible working opportunities.
• 27 days annual leave (pro rata for part-time) plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 29 days after 5 years’ service and to 33 days after 10 years.
• NHS pension scheme. The NHS Pension Scheme is a defined benefit scheme (not dependent on investment returns)
• We’ve fostered a culture of continuous learning where colleagues are well-led, engaged, and encouraged to grow. We support you in reaching your full potential, both in your current role and future career. Our Thrive program embodies our commitment to learning and development, offering a wide range of activities to support your personal and professional growth. It’s open to everyone at NHSBT, ensuring you have the resources to succeed and shine in your role.

Contract Type: Fixed-term

Contract Duration: 24 months

Hours Per Week: 37.5