About Company
Leading innovation from the heart of Mutare, Career.zycto is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking solutions in sustainable technology. We empower visionary leaders, providing them with the resources and autonomy to transform ideas into tangible impact. For a Director of R&D, our dynamic environment offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape future-defining projects, cultivate a culture of scientific inquiry, and drive the strategic direction of our product portfolio. Join a team passionate about pushing boundaries and making a real difference in the world.
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Job Description
The Director of Research & Development at Career.zycto will be a pivotal leader responsible for spearheading our innovation initiatives and charting the technological future of our organization. Based in Mutare, Manicaland Province, you will lead a dedicated team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of excellence. This role demands a visionary with a deep understanding of emerging technologies, a proven track record in product development, and the strategic acumen to align R&D efforts with overarching business goals. You will be instrumental in identifying new market opportunities, managing the entire R&D lifecycle from concept to commercialization, and ensuring that Career.zycto remains at the cutting edge of our industry. We are looking for an inspiring leader who can mentor talent, manage complex projects, and effectively communicate technical strategies to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, driving the continuous evolution of our product offerings and market presence.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with Career.zycto's long-term business objectives and market vision.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous professional growth.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and concept generation through prototyping, rigorous testing, and successful market launch.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, materials, and processes that can significantly enhance existing products or create entirely new market opportunities.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and timelines effectively to ensure projects are delivered on scope, schedule, and within financial parameters.
- Establish and maintain strong intellectual property strategies, including proactive patent applications and robust trade secret protection.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, marketing, operations, and sales teams to ensure seamless integration and commercialization of new products.
- Represent Career.zycto at industry conferences, engage with academic institutions, and stay abreast of competitive landscapes and relevant regulatory requirements.
- Implement robust quality control and risk management protocols within the R&D department to ensure product excellence and compliance.
- Drive continuous improvement in R&D processes and methodologies, leveraging best practices and data-driven insights.
Required Skills
- Exceptional leadership and team management abilities, with a proven track record of inspiring and developing talent.
- Profound understanding of R&D methodologies, project management principles, and the entire product lifecycle management.
- Strong strategic thinking, analytical prowess, and advanced problem-solving skills to navigate complex technical challenges.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging diverse stakeholders effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to inspire innovation, foster creativity, and manage complex technical challenges with practical solutions.
- Proficiency in budgeting and financial oversight for large-scale R&D initiatives.
- Solid grasp of intellectual property rights, patent law, and effective protection strategies.
- Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional, highly collaborative, and fast-paced environment.
- Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Material Science, Chemistry, or a closely related scientific field.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Material Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering).
- Extensive experience with lean product development or Agile methodologies in an R&D context.
- Proven track record of bringing multiple successful, market-disrupting products from concept to commercialization.
- Familiarity with the specific technological landscape relevant to sustainable energy solutions, advanced materials, or precision agriculture.
- Experience in a start-up or rapidly growing technology company, demonstrating adaptability and entrepreneurial drive.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses tied to innovation and commercial success.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage for you and your family.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays, to ensure work-life balance.
- Opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and attendance at industry-leading conferences.
- A vibrant, collaborative, and innovation-driven work environment where your ideas are valued.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates moving to Mutare.
- Participation in groundbreaking projects with significant societal and environmental impact.
- Company-sponsored social events, team-building activities, and wellness programs.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter outlining their experience, strategic vision, and specific achievements in leading R&D. Please highlight your most significant contributions to product innovation and team leadership. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how your expertise can drive Career.zycto’s future.
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