Production Lab and Glaze Manager

Position Overview

This role oversees all aspects of the Production Laboratory and Glaze Preparation at EXA Ceramics, ensuring that quality standards, production efficiency, and innovative techniques are consistently upheld. The manager will supervise laboratory operations, develop glaze formulations, optimize processes, and lead the team towards meeting and exceeding production targets. A strong focus on raw material analysis, process improvement, and interdepartmental communication is required to support high-quality ceramic products.

Main Duties

• Direct and monitor laboratory activities including material analysis and chemical tests.
• Establish and enforce protocols for testing new materials and formulations, and maintain calibrated lab equipment.
• Oversee glaze formulation, mixing, and application, collaborating with R&D and design on specialized glazes and finishes.
• Document all glazing recipes and production parameters, addressing and troubleshooting glaze performance issues.
• Track production shade variation, initiate corrective action as necessary, and obtain R&D sign-off on product modifications.
• Ensure clear communication and process documentation between production stages from raw body prep to kiln.
• Manage pigment and raw material inventory for glazes, ensuring quality and stock levels are maintained.
• Analyze production statistics for ongoing process refinement and support trial runs for new products.
• Maintain comprehensive records and regularly produce reports on laboratory outcomes, glaze metrics, and key production indicators.
• Participate in audits and contribute to overall quality assurance efforts.

Leadership and HR Proficiency

• Identify, develop, and empower high performers on the team; provide guidance and corrective action for underperformers based on performance outcomes.
• Foster a fair and inclusive work environment adhering to non-discriminatory practices.
• Maintain and apply a delegation of authority matrix as per policy.

Operational Accountability

• Assume full responsibility for Production Laboratory and Glaze sections, consistently delivering results aligned with organizational expectations.
• Demonstrate foresight in problem identification and proactive resolution.
• Ensure timely, high-quality, and cost-effective delivery of all operational deliverables.
• Drive substantial positive impact within your remit, consistently exceeding business goals.

Strategic Planning and Reporting

• Translate corporate goals into actionable business plans, track their execution, and provide regular performance feedback.
• Monitor budgets, expenses, and resource allocation to achieve optimal efficiency.
• Continuously develop organizational structure and ensure comprehensive job descriptions for all roles.

Process Improvement and Technology

• Create, refine, and automate written procedures and systems related to laboratory and production processes.
• Be proficient in relevant IT solutions, encouraging digital adoption and leveraging technology for process optimization.

Health, Safety & Environment

• Uphold high safety, security, and regulatory standards for a compliant workplace.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Ceramic Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 4 to 6 years of relevant hands-on experience in ceramic manufacturing or laboratory settings.

Additional Information

• EXA Ceramics is part of a global industrial company with a rigorous emphasis on quality, operational excellence, and workforce development. Employees receive opportunities for growth in an environment that values innovation and continuous improvement.