Mala Govender
Auckland
Summary
Organized and dependable, successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals. Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Quality Project Specialist
New Zealand Blood Service
03.2023 - 08.2023
- Prepared for Medsafe licensing for the new GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) facility in Highbrook.
- Reviewed Validation Master Plan and Facility and Equipment Qualification Plan.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interaction with the wider team.
- Developed audit checklists using user requirement specifications.
- Reviewed and reported on the various stages of 'detailed design'.
Good Laboratory Practice Quality Assurance Manager
Gribbles APHG
08.2022 - 02.2023
- Ensured all work performed were carried out according to ISO17025 and GLP.
- Reviewed the final Principal Investigator report and attached quality commitment to the report.
- Carried out internal audits and issued audit reports.
- Supported, guided and trained staff on ISO17025 and GLP guidelines and closure of audit findings.
- Ensured that the lab was prepared for external audits (IANZ, FDA and sponsor audits)
- Audited and signed off Haematology, Biochemistry, Serology, Microbiology and Histology raw data.
Quality and Client Support
Labtests APHG
07.2019 - 02.2023
- Gathered feedback from customers through surveys.
- Investigated customer complaints and reported into the database.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving inquiries promptly and effectively and providing feedback.
- Conducted process and system audits to identify areas of improvement by issuing audit reports which classified findings according to risks.
- Audited processes and procedures through my annual internal audit plan, ensuring compliance with ISO15189, Health and Safety Standards and best practices.
- Established and tracked quality department goals and objectives.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Gained extensive knowledge in data entry, analysis and reporting.
- Ensured Referrers had current information while fostering positive relationships.
- Reviewed temperature records of the entire practice and documented action taken on outliers.
- Took on Health and Safety responsibilities during staff change over.
Medical Laboratory Scientist- Core Lab
NDHB Whangarei Hospital
12.2017 - 06.2019
- Increased patient satisfaction through timely and accurate diagnostic results.
- Managed inventory effectively, reducing waste while maintaining adequate stock levels for uninterrupted lab operations.
- Highly committed to ISO15189 by contributing to continuous and continual improvement.
- Documented test results using computerized and manual transcription methods.
- Did preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and calibration on analysers and equipment.
- Collaborated with other departments to develop cross-functional educational programs that bridged gaps in knowledge and facilitated interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Contributed to ongoing professional development by attending industry conferences, workshops, and seminars.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
QA, Training and Health and Safety Manager
Clinical Laboratory Services
06.2012 - 11.2017
- Orientated and inducted new staff.
- Was the first line of contact for accreditation and inspection bodies.
- Maintained, improved and implemented the Quality Management System and monitored adherence.
- Formulated an extensive excel spreadsheet to capture, incidents and accidents, complaints and audit findings.
- Developed a combined audit checklist of governance, compliance and inspection bodies requirements.
- Established CAPA's, did root cause analysis, managed CAPA's from initiation to finish. Implemented controls to minimise and or eliminate causes.
- Developed the CLS Health and Safety Manual according to the National OSH Act and sponsor requirements.
- Delivered and coordinated health and safety training, GCLP (Good clinical Laboratory Practice) and ISO15189 training for [over 100 ] external clients and internal employees.
- Trained, mentored and supported staff through education, keeping them informed, training them as internal auditors and by assisting them with their questions and queries.
- Managed safety equipment inventory, ensuring that all staff had access to necessary protective gear and tools for performing their duties safely.
- Conducted safety audits and inspections and internal audits, external contractor and supplier audits.
- Facilitated management review meetings and monthly operations meeting.
- Attained ASP (accredited service provider) status from the Health Professionals Council (HPCSA) via the Society of Medical Technologists of South Africa (SMLTSA). This Status allowed CLS to allocate CPD points to activities.
- Wrote, issued, distributed and trained staff on standard operating procedures, working instructions, policies and protocols.
- Reviewed and signed off IQC, EQA, validations and process validation.
- Developed, tested, trained and updated business continuity plan/ disaster recovery plan/ contingency plan.
- Managed change control.
Senior Medical Technologist-PBMC Laboratory
Clinical Laboratory Services
02.2011 - 05.2012
- Gained experience in Clinical Trials, Research and Biorepository storage (Liquid nitrogen freezing and freezing at minus 80 degrees) for the first time.
- Processed blood samples to determine number of viable cells in the PBMC layer, cryo-preserved the viable cells and frequently tested the vials for viability until shipping for endpoint testing.
- Established effective communication channels between laboratory staff members and clinical trial sites improve coordination of samples.
- Implemented cost-effective measures within the laboratory without compromising on quality or accuracy of results.
- Fostered an environment for continual improvement.
- Prepared the lab and supported staff for audits (GCLP, FDA, EMA and sponsor).
- Audited external suppliers and contractors
- Trained and mentored the team.
- Did preventative maintenance on equipment and analysers to minimise downtime, troubleshooting of errors, validations and evaluations.
- Maintained required laboratory supplies inventory.
- Enforced quality control protocols to maintain accuracy of test results.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
Medical Technologist Supervisor
NHLS Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
09.2009 - 01.2011
- Ensured timely reporting of critical results to healthcare providers, allowing for swift interventions in life-threatening situations.
- Maintained strict adherence to safety protocols, minimizing the risk of infection or contamination in the laboratory environment.
- Ensured adherence to quality control protocols to maintain accuracy of test results.
- Validated methods, processes, equipment and analysers.
- Trained and assessed competency of new and existing staff to perform and interpret tests.
- Was a mentor and go to person for questions and queries.
- Contributed to continual improvement by analysing and mitigating audit findings.
- Maintained a good relationship between NHLS and the universities.
- Ensured preventative maintenance of analysers and equipment for accuracy and reliability, troubleshooting where necessary.
- Evaluated and interpreted laboratory results to determine diagnoses.
- Contributed to ongoing process improvement initiatives by participating in departmental meetings and sharing insights on best practices.
- Served as a reliable resource for physicians seeking clarification on test results or guidance on appropriate testing strategies for specific patient cases.
- Operated highly specialized laboratory equipment to process specimens.
- Utilized microscopy and spectrophotometry following procedures for accurate results.
- Assessed appropriateness of tests, considered the need to improve in order to optimise services.
- Maintained required laboratory supplies inventory, and verified viability of supplies prior to use.
- Participated in the delivery of CPD activities.
- Maintained ISO15189 compliance and fostered an environment of continual improvement.
Senior Medical Laboratory Technologist and 2IC
Lancet Laboratories
05.1997 - 08.2009
- Achieved my first success in ISO15189 accreditation through my end to end efforts.
- Enforced quality control protocols to maintain accuracy of test results.
- As Health and Safety Chair of the entire practise; assisted with the development of laboratory safety protocols, reducing workplace accidents and promoting a safe working environment.
- Performed routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment to produce accurate results and ensured reliability.
- Developed positive relationships with vendors and suppliers to negotiate favourable pricing on reagents and consumables while maintaining adequate inventory levels.
- Operated highly specialized laboratory equipment to process specimens.
- Documented and reported equipment malfunctions for fast resolution and maintenance and to assess supplier service quality,
- Ensured compliance with ISO15189 and all applicable laws and regulations governing clinical laboratories resulting in successful inspections and continued accreditation.
- Prepared reagents and solutions, making readily available during testing for convenience.
- Consistently met established productivity expectations while maintaining high levels of accuracy and quality in all testing performed.
- Enhanced laboratory efficiency by streamlining workflows and implementing new testing methods.
- Evaluated and interpreted laboratory results to determine diagnoses.
- Conducted regular equipment maintenance checks, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing downtime for repairs.
- Performed troubleshooting for complex cases requiring advanced knowledge of diagnostic methodologies leading to more accurate diagnoses.
- Maintained a high level of proficiency in automation and testing platforms, including molecular diagnostics, haematology assays, spectrophotometry and chromatography techniques.
- Reduced turnaround times for critical test results by prioritizing tasks effectively and maintaining clear communication with staff.
- Assisted in the evaluation and validation of new methods, equipment and reagents, ensuring optimal performance before implementing in daily operations.
- Followed safety protocols and precautions for safe and hazard-free work environment.
- Mentored junior technologists, providing guidance on best practices and promoting professional growth within the team.
- Participated in internal and external audits, addressing any discrepancies or areas for improvement for maintaining accreditation standards.
- Participated in continuous education programs to stay current with industry advancements, ensuring that the laboratory utilized cutting-edge techniques and technologies.
- Fostered an environment of continual improvement by teaching, training and mentoring and to improve skills.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and supplies, ensuring proper functioning and compliance with laboratory standards.
- Collected and studied blood samples to determine number of cells, morphology, blood group and blood type.
- Identified and troubleshot technical issues related to laboratory procedures.
- Performed comprehensive analysis of patient samples and generated detailed reports to inform medical staff of results.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Demonstrated a high level of initiative and creativity while tackling difficult tasks.
- Demonstrated creativity and resourcefulness through the development of innovative solutions.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Applied effective time management techniques to meet tight deadlines.
- Prepared and issued working instructions, standard operating procedures, policies and protocols for standardisation, training and long term continuity.
- Tested animal bloods from local vets and referring to consultant at Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital were necessary,
Medical Technologist Supervisor
NHLS Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
05.1993 - 04.1997
- Ensured timely reporting of critical results to healthcare providers, allowing for swift interventions in life-threatening situations.
- Maintained strict adherence to safety protocols, minimizing the risk of infection or contamination in the laboratory environment.
- Ensured adherence to quality control protocols to maintain accuracy of test results.
- Validated methods, processes, equipment and analysers.
- Trained and assessed competency of new and existing staff to perform and interpret tests.
- Was a mentor and go to person for questions and queries.
- Contributed to continual improvement by analysing and mitigating audit findings.
- Maintained a good relationship between NHLS and the universities.
- Ensured preventative maintenance of analysers and equipment for accuracy and reliability, troubleshooting where necessary.
- Evaluated and interpreted laboratory results to determine diagnoses.
- Contributed to ongoing process improvement initiatives by participating in departmental meetings and sharing insights on best practices.
- Served as a reliable resource for physicians seeking clarification on test results or guidance on appropriate testing strategies for specific patient cases.
- Operated highly specialized laboratory equipment to process specimens.
- Utilized microscopy and spectrophotometry following procedures for accurate results.
- Assessed appropriateness of tests, considered the need to improve in order to optimise services.
- Maintained required laboratory supplies inventory, and verified viability of supplies prior to use.
- Participated in the delivery of CPD activities.
- Was Health and Safety Officer ensuring a safe working environment.
- Wrote standard operating procedures and working instructions.
- Participated in the inauguration to implement ISO in South African laboratories.
Senior Medical Technologist
NHLS Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hosp
03.1993 - 04.1994
- Studied blood samples to determine number of cells and morphology.
- Followed laboratory protocols for specimen processing, analysis, and results reporting.
- Analyzed laboratory findings to check accuracy of results.
- Participated in evaluation of new laboratory techniques, products and instruments.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and supplies, ensuring proper functioning and compliance with laboratory standards.
- Maintained high standards of quality control and assurance, ensuring accurate and reliable test results.
- Collected and reviewed patient medical histories to accurately interpret test results.
- Operated, calibrated, and maintained sophisticated instruments and equipment to facilitate quality laboratory and patient care operations
- Participated in essential quality improvement programs to maintain accurate and timely laboratory testing and meet customer needs.
- Prepared specimens for testing procedures.
- Identified patient and labeled specimens with correct information to protect patient from adverse errors.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, ensuring availability of reagents and consumables for uninterrupted operation.
- Followed safety protocols and precautions for safe and hazard-free work environment.
- Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
- Provided professional services and support in a dynamic work environment.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
Senior Medical Technologist
Regional Laboratory Services Addington Hospital
09.1992 - 02.1993
- Collected and studied blood samples to determine number of cells, morphology, blood group and blood type.
- Followed laboratory protocols for specimen processing, analysis, and results reporting.
- Analyzed laboratory findings to check accuracy of results.
- Participated in evaluation of new laboratory techniques, products and instruments.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and supplies, ensuring proper functioning and compliance with laboratory standards.
- Operated highly specialized laboratory equipment to process specimens.
- Maintained high standards of quality control and assurance, ensuring accurate and reliable test results.
- Collected and reviewed patient medical histories to accurately interpret test results.
- Operated, calibrated, and maintained sophisticated instruments and equipment to facilitate quality laboratory and patient care operations.
- Assisted with writing of standard operating procedures.
- Participated in essential quality improvement programs to maintain accurate and timely laboratory testing and meet customer needs.
- Prepared specimens for testing procedures.
- Identified patient and labeled specimens with correct information to protect patient from adverse errors.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, ensuring availability of reagents and consumables for uninterrupted operation.
- Followed safety protocols and precautions for safe and hazard-free work environment.
- Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
- Provided professional services and support in a dynamic work environment.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
Medical Technologist (Student, Qualified)
NHLS Hillbrow Hospital
05.1987 - 08.1992
- Studied blood samples to determine number of cells and morphology.
- Followed laboratory protocols for specimen processing, analysis, and results reporting.
- Analyzed laboratory findings to check accuracy of results.
- Participated in evaluation of new laboratory techniques, products and instruments.
- Maintained high standards of quality control and assurance, ensuring accurate and reliable test results.
- Collected and reviewed patient medical histories to accurately interpret test results.
- Operated, calibrated, and maintained sophisticated instruments and equipment to facilitate quality laboratory and patient care operations.
- Participated in essential quality improvement programs to maintain accurate and timely laboratory testing and meet customer needs.
- Prepared specimens for testing procedures.
- Identified patient and labeled specimens with correct information to protect patient from adverse errors.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, ensuring availability of reagents and consumables for uninterrupted operation.
- Followed safety protocols and precautions for safe and hazard-free work environment.
- Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
Education
National Higher Diploma (Honours) - Medical Technology
University of Johannesburg
Gauteng South Africa12.1994
National Diploma - Medical Technology
Durban University of Technology
Kwazulu Natal South Africa02.1990
Skills
- Workflow Planning and Prioritization
- Team Leadership and relationship building
- internal auditing
- Documentation and Reporting
- Well developed computer skills
- Dependable and Responsible
- Time Management
- Customer Service and complaint investigation
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Advanced troubleshooting and analytical skills
- Methodical and eye for detail
- Quality Assurance Management
- Regulatory Compliance and governance (ISO15189, ISO17025, GMP, GLP, GCP, EMA, FDA and GDP)
- Internal Audits
- CAPA, RCA, change control and risk assessment
- Enhanced communication skills
Accomplishments
Achieved ISO15189 accreditation of the Wits Pathology transplant unit at the Donald Gordon Medical Centre in one year.
Formulated a reference library for Thalassemias and Haemoglobinopathies on the Biorad HPLC D10.
Visited Switzerland to choose a blood group and antibody testing system.
Visited the Peter MacCullam Cancer Centre and the CSL facilities in Melbourne to see their 'cleanroom' facilities.
Developed the Clinical Laboratory Services Health and Safety Manual with all the governance and compliance regulations.
Redesigned the Good Clinical Laboratory Practice course.
Affiliations
- Medical Science Council of New Zealand
- New Zealand Institute of Medical Laboratory Science
Timeline
Quality Project Specialist
New Zealand Blood Service
03.2023 - 08.2023
Good Laboratory Practice Quality Assurance Manager
Gribbles APHG
08.2022 - 02.2023
Quality and Client Support
Labtests APHG
07.2019 - 02.2023
Medical Laboratory Scientist- Core Lab
NDHB Whangarei Hospital
12.2017 - 06.2019
QA, Training and Health and Safety Manager
Clinical Laboratory Services
06.2012 - 11.2017
Senior Medical Technologist-PBMC Laboratory
Clinical Laboratory Services
02.2011 - 05.2012
Medical Technologist Supervisor
NHLS Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
09.2009 - 01.2011
Senior Medical Laboratory Technologist and 2IC
Lancet Laboratories
05.1997 - 08.2009
Medical Technologist Supervisor
NHLS Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
05.1993 - 04.1997
Senior Medical Technologist
NHLS Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hosp
03.1993 - 04.1994
Senior Medical Technologist
Regional Laboratory Services Addington Hospital
09.1992 - 02.1993
Medical Technologist (Student, Qualified)
NHLS Hillbrow Hospital
05.1987 - 08.1992
National Higher Diploma (Honours) - Medical Technology
University of Johannesburg
National Diploma - Medical Technology
Durban University of Technology
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