About Company
Career.zycto is at the forefront of driving innovation in critical sectors across Zimbabwe. We believe that groundbreaking research and development are pivotal to addressing regional challenges and fostering sustainable growth. Our vibrant, collaborative environment empowers visionary leaders to transform ideas into impactful realities. We are committed to nurturing talent and providing the resources necessary for our teams to excel. Joining us means becoming a key architect of future solutions, contributing directly to advancements that resonate within the community and beyond. We offer a unique platform for an R&D Director to leave a lasting legacy.
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Job Description
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and strategic Director of Research & Development to spearhead our innovation initiatives in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe. This pivotal role requires a visionary leader capable of driving a robust R&D pipeline from conceptualization to commercialization, ensuring our strategic position as a leader in industrial advancements within the region. As Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in shaping our long-term technological roadmap, ensuring our research efforts are not only aligned with immediate market needs and stringent business objectives but also contribute significantly to sustainable development goals pertinent to Zimbabwe. You will be at the helm of a multidisciplinary team comprising brilliant scientists, engineers, and dedicated researchers, fostering an environment rich in curiosity, open collaboration, and unwavering commitment to high performance and groundbreaking discovery.
Your comprehensive mandate will include the proactive identification of emerging technologies, rigorous evaluation of their potential impact and applicability to local challenges, and the subsequent development of innovative, scalable solutions that address real-world problems. This role demands a profound understanding of relevant industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and resource optimization within the unique Zimbabwean context, coupled with a broad, global perspective on cutting-edge scientific and technological advancements. You will bear full responsibility for the meticulous management of the R&D budget, optimizing resource allocation to maximize output and ensuring all projects adhere to the highest standards of scientific rigor, ethical practice, and local and international regulatory compliance. Beyond your core technical and managerial leadership, you will serve as a crucial liaison, building strong bridges between the R&D department and other vital functions including product development, operations, and executive leadership. Your ability to translate complex scientific concepts into clear, actionable business strategies will be paramount. We are looking for an individual who is not only a brilliant scientist or engineer with a deep technical foundation but also a dynamic leader, a strategic thinker, and a passionate advocate committed to making a tangible and positive difference in Zimbabwe’s industrial and economic landscape. If you possess the relentless drive to innovate, inspire your team to reach new heights, and deliver transformative results that resonate nationally and regionally, we invite you to lead our R&D efforts into a new era of discovery, impact, and sustainable growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the strategic vision for the R&D department, aligning with overall business objectives and market demands in Zimbabwe.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a diverse team of researchers and scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the entire R&D project lifecycle, from ideation and feasibility studies to prototyping, testing, and successful handover for commercialization.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies, methodologies, and partnerships to enhance research capabilities and competitive advantage.
- Manage the R&D budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence to financial targets.
- Establish and maintain robust intellectual property strategies, including patenting and knowledge management.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with product development, marketing, operations, and regulatory affairs to ensure seamless integration of R&D outputs.
- Represent the company in academic, industry, and governmental forums, promoting our research initiatives and forging strategic alliances.
Required Skills
- Proven leadership experience in R&D management (10+ years)
- Strong background in scientific research methodologies and experimental design
- Expertise in project management tools and practices
- Excellent strategic planning and analytical skills
- Demonstrated ability to inspire and lead multidisciplinary teams
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English
- Proficiency in budget management and resource allocation
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science)
- Experience working within a rapidly evolving market or developing economies, particularly in Africa.
- Track record of successful product commercialization.
- Familiarity with intellectual property law and patent application processes.
- Professional certifications in project management (e.g., PMP).
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for candidates outside Masvingo.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Dynamic and collaborative work environment with a focus on impact.
- Opportunity to shape the future of innovation in Zimbabwe.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and vision for this role. Please ensure your application highlights your leadership in R&D and your alignment with our mission. Click on the link below to apply for the job.
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