Susan Runyan

About Susan Runyan

I lead CLIA moderate complexity laboratories with a focus on GMP, compliance, and operational excellence. I create environments where teams are empowered, resilient, and proud of the work they do, while building systems that scale and perform under growth and change.I am passionate about fostering collaboration, elevating underrepresented voices, and developing laboratory teams that thrive. My work blends technical expertise with emotional intelligence to ensure labs operate efficiently, maintain the highest standards, and deliver meaningful impact in healthcare.I specialize in designing processes that drive compliance, strengthen quality systems, and turn laboratories into strategic assets. I share insights, inspire leadership, and explore innovative approaches to team building and operational excellence in healthcare.

Experience

1. Interim Laboratory Director Clinic Laboratory Manager,cls,mls(Ascp)-cell Solutions

   Charles River Laboratories

   Feb 2025 — Present

   Manages and guides laboratory technicians to ensure they follow standard procedures and good practices. Gives regular feedback on performance and works with the Scientific Director for performance reviews. • Develops and maintains staff training programs. Conducts proficiency testing and assesses department needs to suggest hiring more staff if necessary. • Represents the laboratory professionally to customers and serves as a role model. • Completes necessary documents for quality control packets and reviews test results daily. Approves reports on errors and corrective actions. • Designs and conducts experiments to meet marketing goals. Leads projects to improve efficiency and evaluates lab equipment and supplies for purchasing. • Identifies and solves problems in tasks and documents corrective actions. Consults with management for solutions if needed. • Prepares materials for internal audits and inspections by regulatory agencies. • Assists management in budgeting and resource allocation for the lab. Maintains inventory of lab supplies. • Processes and labels blood products as needed. Tests blood samples and accurately reports results, handling unacceptable results appropriately. • Ensures lab equipment is maintained and meets quality standards. • Completes quality control and maintenance tasks for lab equipment. • Follows standard procedures and regulatory requirements in all tasks. Participates in developing and reviewing procedures to improve service quality. • Uses blood product information systems and performs necessary overrides. • Follows safety rules in the lab. • Trains in other labs and testing methods as needed. • Performs other assigned duties.

Education

• Portland State University

  Bachelor of Science , Micro/Molecular Biology

  2006 — 2009

• Oregon Health & Science University

  Bachelor's degree, Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist

  2018 — 2019

• West Coast Phlebotomy

  Phlebotomy Technician/Phlebotomist, Phlebotomy Technician/Phlebotomist

  2009

• Concorde Career Colleges

  Medical Transcription Certificate

  2003 — 2003

• Oregon Institute of Technology

  Bachelor's degree, Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist

  2018 — 2019

• University of Cincinnati

  Master's degree, Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership Program