Laboratory startup and operations
The Situation
The Client was instructed by the DHSC to create a new high capacity, high throughput qPCR diagnostics laboratory as part of the national response to the Covid pandemic. We were assigned to head the PMO for the startup new laboratory build structuring delivery across Estates, Logistics, Systems, People, Clinical. Deloitte were onboard as prime service integrator across the UK, and we reported into their structure daily. We delivered the new laboratory from idea in September 2020 to initial operating capability in January 2021, to full operating capability in March 2021.
The Task
The client had asked the startup head of Logistics to take on the General Manager role and govern the 24/7 operational delivery of the facility. He accepted the post but then changed his mind within 1 week. This left the client in a precarious position – it was an expert in clinical diagnostics, but not an expert in high capacity, high throughput workflows but had to find a way to fulfil their contractual commitment to the DHSC..
The Action / Approach
We stepped forward, not as an expert on diagnostics or manufacturing, but as an expert in effective change delivery across people, processes and systems. The client had confidence in our capability from previous work, and accepted our offer.
The Result
We led the facility through the peak pandemic, and then onwards for a further 3 years as we helped the Client to be recognised by the DHSC as a key partner in their Biotech surveillance programme post pandemic.
