Diagnostic Laboratory Consultant - Remote

ABC Diagnostic & Research Center, based in Afghanistan, is seeking a senior consultant to support the launch and growth of its diagnostic laboratory network. This freelance consultancy role requires approximately three hours of work per day and is remote-based in Pakistan, with occasional travel to Afghanistan as needed. Reporting directly to the CEO, the consultant will play a critical role in establishing operational systems, developing referral networks, and positioning the laboratory as a trusted diagnostic provider in the region.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Launch & Operations:
Advise on laboratory layout, workflow design, equipment selection, and test menu planning. Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) covering pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases. Define staffing structures, roles, and recruitment criteria, supporting hiring and training processes. Oversee the setup of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), reporting, and billing systems.

Collection Centers & Sample Logistics:
Plan and establish collection centers using a hub-and-spoke model. Design sample transport mechanisms including cold-chain and courier systems. Develop protocols for sample handling, rejection criteria, and traceability to ensure quality and reliability.

Quality, Turnaround Time (TAT) & KPI Management:
Implement quality management systems aligned with international standards such as ISO 15189 and CAP accreditation. Establish internal quality control, external quality assurance (EQA), and audit practices. Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), turnaround times, and develop performance dashboards.

Business Development & Marketing:
Build and nurture a doctor and referral network through structured engagement programs. Develop partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and corporate clients. Create the laboratory’s brand positioning, marketing plan, and pricing strategy. Plan and manage field marketing teams, incentives, and sales targets.

Management & Reporting:
Deliver a phased launch roadmap with clear milestones and timelines. Mentor local management and staff to build internal capabilities. Provide regular progress reports to the CEO to ensure transparency and alignment.

Required Qualifications

Candidates should have 8 to 15+ years of experience in diagnostic laboratory operations and business development or marketing. Senior-level experience with leading laboratory networks such as Chughtai Lab, IDC, Aga Khan University Hospital Laboratories, Shaukat Khanum, Excel Labs, Essa Lab, or similar is essential. A degree in Medical Laboratory Technology, Pathology, Life Sciences, or a related field is required. An MBA or healthcare management qualification is preferred.

Core expertise must include:
- Laboratory operations and management
- Collection centers and sample logistics
- Doctor and referral network development
- Hospital and corporate business development
- Laboratory marketing
- TAT, KPI, and quality management
- Staff management and operational systems
- Launching new laboratories and expanding referral networks

Preferred Skills and Benefits

Strong leadership, negotiation, and relationship-building skills are critical. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to build systems from scratch in a new market and take a data-driven approach to performance and growth. Excellent communication skills in English and Urdu are required, with Pashto or Dari language skills considered an advantage. A good understanding of the regional healthcare landscape and willingness to travel to Afghanistan periodically is necessary.

The engagement is initially offered as a freelance consultancy with the possibility of extension or conversion to a full-time role based on performance. The position allows remote work from Pakistan, with travel expenses to Afghanistan covered by the organization. Consultancy fees will be discussed and agreed upon with the selected candidate.