Call for application Chief Operations Officer (COO) at X.PATH Labs

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT Chief Operations Officer (COO)

Institution: X.PATH Labs - Center for Molecular Pathology & Genomics

Location: Yaoundé, Cameroon

Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary: Competitive international wages (to be discussed with qualified candidates) Application Deadline: Open until filled / by 01.09.2025

About X.PATH Labs

X.PATH Labs is a pioneering medical diagnostics institute based in Yaoundé, Cameroon, focused on transforming pathology services across Central Africa. As a Center for Molecular Pathology & Genomics, we offer cutting-edge diagnostics in: Cytopathology, General Pathology, and Immunohistochemistry

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Predictive and Prognostic Biomarker Testing for Personalized Medicine Our work is grounded in scientific excellence, precision medicine, and global collaboration. With strategic partners including Roche Diagnostics, we are committed to meeting the highest international standards in laboratory medicine, research, and patient care.

POSITION SUMMARY: Chief Operations Officer (COO)

We are seeking a mission-driven and systems-oriented Chief Operations Officer (COO) to lead the operational and organizational development of X.PATH Labs. This is a critical executive role responsible for ensuring that our infrastructure, staffing, procedures, and services operate with excellence and efficiency in alignment with our strategic mission: delivering world-class diagnostic care to the region.

The COO will work alongside the CEO and senior leadership to scale the institute's operations, build strong internal processes, and foster a high-performance culture focused on clinical precision and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Operations & Execution

• Lead day-to-day operational management of all core lab functions including HR, logistics, procurement, and administration.
• Oversee compliance with international clinical, laboratory, and safety standards
• Develop and refine SOPs, KPIs, and internal controls to optimize diagnostic service delivery.
• Infrastructure & Systems Development
• Implement scalable operational systems to support the growing demands of the laboratory and research programs.
• Oversee maintenance and technical operations for advanced diagnostic equipment, including molecular and histopathology platforms.
• Financial & Resource Management
• Prepare and manage budgets in collaboration with the CEO and finance team.
• Monitor resource allocation and purchasing strategies for sustainability and cost-efficiency.
• HR & Organizational Leadership
• Build and lead cross-functional teams, ensuring adequate staffing, training. and staff development programs.
• Shape a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning. Strategic Partnerships & Compliance
• Support external collaborations with partners like Roche Diagnostics, academic institutions, and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with national and international health and data standards.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of senior operational leadership, preferably in healthcare, biotech, diagnostics, or hospital settings.
• Proven experience managing operations in clinical or laboratory environments. 
• Advanced degree in Health Administration, Operations Management, Biomedical Sciences, or related fields (MBA, MPH, or MSc preferred).
• Familiarity with diagnostic and pathology services, including laboratory quality systems and procurement cycles.
• Strong leadership, communication, and cross-cultural management skills.
• Ability to navigate resource-constrained environments with creativity and resilience.

Desired Attributes

• Passionate about improving healthcare outcomes in Africa through innovation.
• Systems thinker with a hands-on, solution-oriented approach.
• Experience working in international partnerships or multi-stakeholder environments.
• Fluent in English and/or French (bilingual preferred).

Desired Attributes

• Passionate about improving healthcare outcomes in Africa through innovation.
• Systems thinker with a hands-on, solution-oriented approach.
• Experience working in international partnerships or multi-stakeholder environments.
• Fluent in English and/or French (bilingual preferred).

What We Offer

• A mission-aligned leadership role in a transformative regional health initiative.
• Opportunity to co-shape the future of precision diagnostics in Africa.
• Competitive international compensation and benefits.
• Collaborative, diverse, and forward-thinking work environment.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, cover letter, and any supporting materials to: @info@xpathlabs.com

Subject line: CO0 Application - [Your Name]

Deadline: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; final deadline 01.09.2025