Department Manager, Laboratory

About the role

Penda Health is seeking a Department Manager to lead its laboratory services across multiple medical centres. The role combines technical leadership, quality assurance, regulatory compliance and operational support to ensure accurate, reliable diagnostic results.

Key responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise on testing, equipment, reagents and processes, guiding decisions that affect laboratory service delivery.
• Ensure quality across the full testing pathway, from sample collection to result reporting and incident follow‑up.
• Maintain compliance with KMLTTB requirements and other regulatory standards, leading gap identification and closure.
• Standardise workflows, SOPs and reporting tools to improve scalability and service delivery.
• Drive adoption of EMR and digital tools for results management, traceability and performance monitoring.
• Partner with HR and regional managers to recruit, onboard and develop laboratory professionals.
• Lead laboratory audits, inspections and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Diploma in Laboratory Technology from a recognised institution.
• Registration with the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB) with a valid practising licence.
• Minimum 3–4 years of laboratory technology experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or technical leadership role.

Required skills

• Laboratory quality systems and biosafety protocols.
• Diagnostic workflow management.
• Experience with EMR systems and digital results management tools.