About Company
Pioneering transformative solutions across Africa, Career.zycto is dedicated to accelerating progress through innovative research and strategic development that shapes future industries. We cultivate a dynamic environment where curiosity, collaboration, and impactful execution are paramount. For a Director of R&D, Career.zycto provides an unparalleled platform to lead groundbreaking projects, build and empower high-performing teams, and drive tangible advancements that redefine market standards. Join us to architect the next generation of solutions and leave a lasting legacy.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking a visionary and dynamic Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation engine in Epworth, Harare Province. This is a critical leadership role that will shape the future trajectory of our offerings and impact our market position significantly. As Director of R&D, you will be at the forefront of identifying emerging technologies, market needs, and strategic opportunities to drive the conceptualization, development, and delivery of cutting-edge solutions. You will be instrumental in translating complex ideas into actionable research plans and robust product roadmaps, ensuring alignment with our overarching business goals.
Your mandate will include fostering a culture of continuous innovation, scientific rigor, and agile development within your team. You will recruit, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of researchers, engineers, and scientists, empowering them to push boundaries and achieve excellence. This role demands a strategic thinker with a strong technical background, exceptional leadership qualities, and a proven track record of bringing innovative products or services from concept to commercialization. You will manage the entire R&D lifecycle, from initial research and prototyping to testing, validation, and integration with broader company initiatives.
Collaboration is key; you will work closely with executive leadership, product management, sales, and marketing teams to ensure our R&D efforts are customer-centric, market-relevant, and commercially viable. You will also be responsible for managing the R&D budget, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring that all projects are delivered on time and within scope. If you are passionate about driving technological advancements, building high-performing teams, and making a tangible impact on a rapidly evolving industry, we invite you to lead our journey of innovation.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the long-term R&D strategy, roadmap, and vision in alignment with company objectives.
- Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of researchers, engineers, and technical staff.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from concept and research to prototyping, testing, and deployment.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and project timelines to ensure efficient and effective delivery.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, market trends, and competitive landscapes to inform strategic decisions.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, continuous learning, and intellectual property development.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, marketing, sales, and operations to ensure seamless integration and commercialization of new offerings.
- Establish and maintain strong quality control processes, ensuring all R&D outputs meet the highest standards.
- Represent Career.zycto at industry conferences, seminars, and with external partners.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, regulations, and ethical guidelines.
Required Skills
- Master's degree or Ph.D. in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in R&D roles, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or director-level position.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic R&D roadmaps and manage complex innovation portfolios.
- Proven experience in managing and mentoring multidisciplinary technical teams.
- Strong understanding of product development processes, Agile methodologies, and project management principles.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in budget management, resource allocation, and operational efficiency.
- Ability to analyze market trends, identify opportunities, and translate them into actionable R&D initiatives.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a results-oriented mindset.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or equivalent business management experience.
- Experience in the Technology & Innovation Consulting or Research & Development Services industry.
- Track record of successful product launches and intellectual property contributions (patents, publications).
- Experience working in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
- Familiarity with emerging technologies such as AI, Machine Learning, or IoT.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- A dynamic, collaborative, and innovation-driven work environment.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Access to cutting-edge research tools and technologies.
- Contribution to impactful projects shaping the future of African industries.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and why they are the ideal fit for this role. Please click on the application link below to proceed with your application. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications.
