About Company
Career.zycto is seeking a visionary Director of R&D to spearhead innovation within our dynamic organization. We believe that groundbreaking research and development are the cornerstones of future success and competitive advantage. Our commitment to fostering a culture of curiosity, experimentation, and scientific rigor provides an unparalleled platform for a driven leader to make a significant impact. Join a team where your strategic insights and technical prowess will directly shape product evolution and market disruption. We empower our leaders to challenge norms, explore new frontiers, and build a legacy of scientific achievement.
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Job Description
Are you a seasoned leader with a passion for pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and technological advancement? Career.zycto is actively seeking an exceptional Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation initiatives from our Beitbridge operations. This pivotal role demands a strategic thinker with a robust technical background, a proven track record in product development, and the ability to inspire and manage high-performing research teams. You will be instrumental in defining our R&D roadmap, overseeing the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization to market launch, and ensuring our offerings remain at the forefront of industry standards.
As the Director of R&D, you will be responsible for translating market needs and company vision into tangible research projects, managing budgets, and fostering collaborations with external partners and academic institutions. Your expertise will guide critical decision-making regarding technology selection, intellectual property strategy, and the implementation of best practices in research methodologies. This is more than just a leadership position; it’s an opportunity to shape the future direction of Career.zycto, driving sustainable growth through disruptive innovation. We are looking for an individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, embraces complex challenges, and is dedicated to achieving measurable scientific and commercial outcomes. Your leadership will not only elevate our product portfolio but also cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and inventive problem-solving across the organization. Join us and contribute to a future defined by groundbreaking achievements.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with company objectives and market trends.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a diverse team of researchers, scientists, and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from ideation, feasibility studies, prototyping, to commercialization.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and timelines efficiently to ensure project delivery on schedule and within cost parameters.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies, methodologies, and scientific breakthroughs into product development.
- Establish and maintain strong intellectual property portfolios, including patent applications and trade secret protection.
- Foster cross-functional collaboration with marketing, sales, manufacturing, and regulatory teams to ensure seamless product integration and market success.
- Monitor industry landscapes, competitive intelligence, and emerging scientific trends to identify new opportunities and threats.
- Represent the company at industry conferences, scientific forums, and engage with key stakeholders and partners.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant regulatory standards, quality requirements, and ethical guidelines.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Chemistry, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in R&D, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Demonstrated success in leading complex R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
- Strong understanding of intellectual property management and patent strategies.
- Exceptional strategic planning, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
- Proven ability to manage budgets, resources, and diverse technical teams effectively.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in project management software and R&D best practices.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in the manufacturing, materials science, or biotechnology sectors, particularly with relevance to Southern African markets.
- Track record of successful grant applications and external funding acquisition.
- Published research papers or patents in relevant fields.
- Experience working with international teams and managing global R&D initiatives.
- Fluency in additional local languages (e.g., Shona, Ndebele) is an advantage.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates moving to Beitbridge.
- A vibrant, collaborative, and innovative work environment where your ideas are valued.
- Opportunities for international travel and cross-cultural collaboration on strategic projects.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their detailed resume and a compelling cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience relevant to this pivotal role. Please ensure your cover letter highlights your leadership philosophy and your vision for driving innovation. Click on the application link below to apply for the job. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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