Embracing Curiosity and Change: Pramit's Career Journey in Honey Testing
Name: Pramit Patel
Role: Section Manager - Honey
Length of service at Hill Labs: 3 years (as of June 2025)
Qualifications: Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences and Master of Science
What is the area of science or testing you specialise in?
In honey testing, our work involves a range of chemical tests that help determine the composition and characteristics of honey. This includes the analysis of key markers used to verify floral origin, freshness, authenticity, and overall quality. While we test a wide variety of honey types, mānuka honey remains a significant part of our portfolio due to its status as a premium New Zealand product with strong demand in both local and international markets. Our testing supports producers in meeting regulatory requirements, client expectations, and broader commercial needs, ensuring their products are market-ready and trusted by consumers.
What are your current role and responsibilities at Hill Labs?
My team oversees the entire journey of a honey sample from registration and lab testing to final reporting. In my role, I lead and support a dedicated team, setting clear and measurable objectives for each member and supporting their development. I’m also responsible for ensuring our lab operations meet key performance indicators. A big part of my role involves continuous improvement, developing a deep understanding of our methods and processes, and working closely with others to implement enhancements that boost productivity and profitability. I manage our section’s operating costs, budgets, and business cases for investment, while also ensuring we meet health and safety, quality, and sustainability standards.
What inspired you to pursue this career/line of work?
After university, I was keen to get into vaccine development and nearly landed a role in Wellington to pursue that path. But around the same time, I was offered an opportunity to help develop a commercial method for pollen analysis in honey. That project sparked my interest in the honey industry and seven years later, I am still here, loving the complexity and uniqueness of the field.
How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements in your field?
A lot of insights come directly from our clients they often raise questions or ideas that spark further investigation. We also keep an eye on industry publications, regulatory updates, and collaborate with other experts in the field in the academic and private sectors.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to enter the technical field?
Expect the unexpected. Be open to change, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to take a path you didn’t originally plan for as it might lead to something even better.
What’s the most challenging part of your job and the most rewarding?
The biggest challenges often become the most rewarding. When instruments go down or unexpected issues arise, we have to get creative to keep things moving. Meeting our turnaround times while maintaining quality standards is tough but incredibly satisfying. I’m lucky to work with a highly capable team that’s seen it all and knows how to respond under pressure.
How do you keep learning and growing in your field?
Every challenge is a learning opportunity. I also learn a lot from my team, our clients, and by staying connected with developments in the honey and lab science sectors. Continuous improvement is part of our culture.
How does Hill Labs support your learning and career progression?
Hill Labs has been incredibly supportive of my growth. From hands-on project opportunities to leadership development and technical training, they’ve provided the tools and trust to help me evolve in my career.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in this field of lab science?
You won’t know if it's for you until you try it. Be open-minded, give it a go, and don’t be afraid to start somewhere unexpected, it might lead to a fulfilling career.
