About Company
Career.zycto empowers organizations to achieve breakthroughs by connecting them with visionary leaders. We believe in fostering environments where innovation thrives, driving progress that shapes industries and improves lives. For a Director of R&D, we offer the unparalleled opportunity to helm transformative projects in a dynamic landscape. You will find a robust platform for intellectual exploration, strategic impact, and the direct application of your expertise to real-world challenges, making it an ideal setting to leave a lasting legacy of innovation.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an exceptional and strategically-minded Director of R&D to lead pioneering innovation efforts for one of our distinguished clients in the Kwekwe, Midlands Province. This pivotal role demands a leader who can not only envision the future of industrial technology and product development but also meticulously chart the course to achieve it. You will be at the forefront of driving research and development initiatives, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, technological advancement, and continuous improvement within a challenging and rewarding sector.
As the Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in setting the strategic direction for all research and development activities, aligning them with overall business objectives and market demands. Your leadership will be crucial in building, mentoring, and inspiring a high-performing team of engineers and scientists, empowering them to push boundaries and deliver groundbreaking solutions. This position requires a profound understanding of industry trends, emerging technologies, and a keen ability to translate complex research into tangible products and processes that drive competitive advantage and operational excellence.
Beyond technical leadership, you will be a key voice in cross-functional strategic planning, collaborating closely with executive leadership, production, marketing, and sales teams to ensure seamless integration of R&D outcomes into the broader organizational framework. Your capacity to manage budgets, mitigate risks, and navigate regulatory landscapes will be vital. We are looking for a visionary who is passionate about scientific discovery, committed to practical application, and possesses the communication prowess to articulate complex ideas to diverse audiences. This is an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant impact on industrial innovation in the region, steering the trajectory of technological advancement and contributing to sustainable growth.
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Key Responsibilities
- Formulate and execute the overarching R&D strategy, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and market opportunities.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from concept generation and prototyping to testing and commercialization.
- Manage the R&D budget effectively, ensuring optimal resource allocation and project prioritization to maximize ROI.
- Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, scientific advancements, and industry trends to inform future research directions.
- Establish and maintain robust intellectual property strategies, including patenting and trade secret protection.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership, production, marketing, and sales teams to integrate R&D outcomes.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and quality management systems.
- Present R&D progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to senior management and external stakeholders.
Required Skills
- PhD or Master’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in R&D, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or directorial role.
- Proven track record of successfully leading and delivering complex R&D projects from conception to market.
- Strong strategic planning, project management, and budget management skills.
- Expertise in intellectual property management and patent portfolio development.
- Exceptional leadership, team-building, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Deep understanding of industrial processes, manufacturing technologies, and product development cycles.
- Proficiency in data analysis, experimental design, and statistical process control.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or equivalent business management qualification.
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
- Experience working in the mining, heavy industry, or agricultural technology sectors.
- Published research papers, patents, or significant contributions to industry standards.
- Familiarity with lean R&D principles and agile development methodologies.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive annual salary with performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
- Company-sponsored professional development and training opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
- Dynamic and collaborative work environment focused on innovation.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on industry-leading projects.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a detailed resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience relevant to this role. Please click on the application link below to apply for this job. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your strategic leadership capabilities and your vision for industrial R&D.
