BEKEZELA MAXWELL BLOSE
Laboratory Supervisor | Laboratory Analyst
Verulam
Summary
Dynamic Laboratory Supervisor with over 10 years of extensive experience in the agriculture and agri-processing sector, specializing in precise laboratory analysis to enhance production efficiency. Expertise in implementing robust quality control systems aligned with international standards and ensuring strict adherence to laboratory safety and regulatory compliance. Proven track record in developing, training, and mentoring laboratory personnel to elevate technical competence and operational effectiveness. Seeking opportunities for career advancement and a platform to apply skills and theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, while promoting continuous professional growth.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
7
7
Certifications
2
2
Languages
Work History
Laboratory Supervisor
Tongaat Hulett Limited
09.2022 - Current
- Supervise daily laboratory operations to ensure accurate, timely, and reliable testing and analysis
- Plan, allocate, and monitor laboratory workloads to support production and operational requirements
- Ensure compliance with quality management systems, industry standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g. ISO, GLP)
- Review, verify, and approve test results, reports, and certificates of analysis
- Implement and maintain quality control and assurance procedures
- Monitor and enforce laboratory health, safety, and environmental compliance
- Conduct risk assessments and ensure proper use of PPE and safe laboratory practices
- Train, mentor, and develop laboratory staff to improve technical competence and performance
- Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
- Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and validation of laboratory equipment and instruments
- Manage laboratory consumables, chemicals, and inventory control
- Investigate non-conformances, deviations, and customer complaints, and implement corrective actions
- Liaise with production, quality, and management teams to support process improvements
- Prepare and submit laboratory reports, KPIs, and performance metrics
- Participate in internal and external audits and implement audit findings
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and laboratory process optimization
- Improved staff competency through continuous training programs and performance evaluations.
- Established a safe working environment by enforcing strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines.
- Reduced turnaround time for test results by optimizing workflows and laboratory procedures.
- Mentoring junior staff members to foster professional growth, skill development, and career advancement opportunities within the organization.
- Managing budget effectively by monitoring expenses, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and prioritizing investments in resources that maximize value for the organization.
- Assisting with development and administration of laboratory budgets.
Laboratory Analyst
Illovo Sugar
07.2017 - 10.2022
- Perform routine and non-routine laboratory analyses on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products
- Prepare samples using appropriate sampling, extraction, and preparation techniques
- Conduct chemical, physical, and instrumental tests in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Accurately record, calculate, and interpret test results and maintain laboratory records
- Ensure compliance with quality control and quality assurance requirements
- Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory instruments and equipment
- Identify, report, and assist in investigating out-of-specification results and deviations
- Prepare reagents, standards, and solutions according to specifications
- Adhere strictly to laboratory health, safety, and environmental procedures
- Use PPE and follow safe handling and disposal procedures for chemicals and waste
- Support internal and external audits by providing documentation and test records
- Communicate results clearly to supervisors, quality teams, and production staff
- Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment
- Assist with method development, validation, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Participate in proficiency testing and skills development activities
Laboratory Assistant
Illovo Sugar
06.2016 - 07.2017
- Assist laboratory analysts and supervisors with routine testing and sample preparation
- Collect, label, log, and store samples accurately according to laboratory procedures
- Prepare reagents, solutions, under supervision
- Clean, sterilize, and maintain laboratory glassware, tools, and equipment
- Support the operation and basic maintenance of laboratory instruments
- Accurately record test data and maintain laboratory records and logbooks
- Ensure compliance with laboratory health, safety, and environmental regulations
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe laboratory practices
- Assist with waste segregation and safe disposal of chemicals and biological materials
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment
- Monitor laboratory stock levels and assist with inventory management
- Report equipment faults, safety hazards, or deviations to supervisors
- Support quality control activities and audits by preparing documentation
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
Quality Analyst
Illovo Sugar
04.2015 - 06.2016
- Conduct quality inspections and testing of raw materials, in-process items, and finished products to ensure compliance with standards
- Review and analyze production processes, test results, and quality data to identify areas for improvement
- Develop, implement, and maintain quality control procedures, checklists, and SOPs
- Monitor adherence to regulatory, safety, and industry standards (e.g., ISO, HACCP, GMP)
- Investigate non-conformances, deviations, and customer complaints, recommending and implementing corrective and preventive actions
- Prepare detailed quality reports, documentation, and performance metrics for management review
- Collaborate with production, engineering, and laboratory teams to resolve quality issues and drive process improvements
- Perform audits and inspections, both internal and external, and ensure compliance with company and statutory requirements
- Train and mentor staff on quality standards, procedures, and best practices
- Maintain accurate records of inspections, tests, and corrective actions
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and projects to enhance product quality and operational efficiency
Education
FETC Generic Management Certificate - Management
Duke Corporate Education
South Africa11-2025
Postgraduate Certificate in Education - Physical Science S And Mathematics
University of South Africa
South Africa12-2021
Bachelor of Technology Degree - Chemistry
Mangosuthu University of Technology
Durban, South Africa12-2018
National Diploma - Analytical Chemistry
Mangosuthu University of Technology
Durban, South Africa12-2015
National Senior Certificate - Matric
Ogwini Comprehensive Technical School
Durban, South Africa12-2012
Skills
Team leadership and communication
Responsive to new challenges
Effective problem solving
Strategic leadership
Experienced in SAP software, LIMS and Excel
Proficient in instrument calibration and validation
Adherence to laboratory protocols
Chemical handling
Maintenance scheduling
Sample preparation
Certification
Advanced Excel, KZN Business Training Centre (2024)
Timeline
Laboratory Supervisor
Tongaat Hulett Limited
09.2022 - Current
Laboratory Analyst
Illovo Sugar
07.2017 - 10.2022
Laboratory Assistant
Illovo Sugar
06.2016 - 07.2017
Quality Analyst
Illovo Sugar
04.2015 - 06.2016
FETC Generic Management Certificate - Management
Duke Corporate Education
Postgraduate Certificate in Education - Physical Science S And Mathematics
University of South Africa
Bachelor of Technology Degree - Chemistry
Mangosuthu University of Technology
National Diploma - Analytical Chemistry
Mangosuthu University of Technology
National Senior Certificate - Matric
Ogwini Comprehensive Technical School
About Me
- Date of birth: 1994-01-27
- Gender: Male
- Email: bekezelamaxwell@gmail.com
- Phone: (+27) 73 4255 659
- Driver’s License: Code 08 (B)
- Address: 46 As-Safa Way, Riyadh, Verulam, 4339
- Nationality: South African
- Languages: English, IsiZulu
- Willing to relocate: Yes
- Availability: Immediately