About Company
At Career.zycto, we envision a future shaped by groundbreaking innovation and sustainable solutions. For a visionary Director of R&D, this is an unparalleled opportunity to lead a dedicated team at the forefront of technological advancement. We foster a culture where creativity thrives, bold ideas are encouraged, and scientific rigor meets practical application. Joining us means contributing to projects that not only push industry boundaries but also create tangible, positive impact within the region and beyond. We are committed to empowering our leaders with the resources and autonomy needed to achieve ambitious research and development goals.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking a visionary and dynamic Director of R&D to spearhead our innovation efforts in Matabeleland North Province, Zimbabwe. This critical leadership role requires a strategic thinker and an influential leader who can inspire and guide multidisciplinary research and development teams across various projects. The Director of R&D will be instrumental in defining and executing Career.zycto’s long-term innovation strategy, identifying emerging technologies, and translating cutting-edge scientific discoveries into market-ready products and services that address both local and regional needs. You will oversee the entire R&D lifecycle, from initial conceptualization and rigorous prototyping to extensive testing and eventual commercialization, ensuring all initiatives maintain strict alignment with overall business objectives and evolving market demands.
The successful candidate will be a proactive problem-solver with an exceptional, proven track record of bringing innovative solutions from the laboratory to successful market adoption. You will be directly responsible for managing complex R&D projects, strategically securing necessary financial and human resources, and fostering a collaborative, high-performance environment where intellectual curiosity, scientific excellence, and ethical practices are paramount. This position demands not only deep technical expertise in relevant fields but also astute business acumen, enabling you to effectively articulate the value proposition of R&D initiatives to executive stakeholders and secure crucial buy-in for strategic investments. You will also be tasked with meticulously building robust intellectual property portfolios, expertly navigating local and international regulatory landscapes, and diligently staying abreast of global technological advancements and competitive trends to maintain Career.zycto’s competitive edge in a rapidly changing world.
Furthermore, you will play a crucial role in mentoring and developing the next generation of researchers, establishing and nurturing strategic external partnerships with leading academic institutions, government bodies, and industry experts. Your representation of Career.zycto at relevant conferences, workshops, and forums will be key to enhancing our reputation and identifying new opportunities. Your leadership will directly influence the company’s growth trajectory and its ability to consistently deliver innovative solutions that address critical challenges and contribute positively to economic development in the region. This is more than a management role; it is an unparalleled opportunity to leave a lasting legacy through pioneering research and development efforts in a dynamic and developing region. If you are passionate about driving innovation, leading high-performing teams, and making a significant, tangible impact, we strongly encourage you to apply.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the long-term R&D strategy in alignment with company goals.
- Lead, mentor, and manage multidisciplinary R&D teams effectively.
- Oversee the full R&D product lifecycle, from concept and prototyping to commercialization.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, market trends, and competitive landscapes.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and project timelines efficiently.
- Establish and maintain robust intellectual property strategies.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the team.
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships with external academic institutions, industry experts, and government bodies.
- Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, quality assurance protocols, and regulatory requirements.
- Communicate R&D progress, strategic vision, and project outcomes to executive leadership and key stakeholders.
- Represent Career.zycto at relevant industry conferences, forums, and scientific events.
Required Skills
- Proven leadership and management experience in an R&D setting.
- Strong strategic planning and execution abilities with a focus on long-term vision.
- Expertise in the complete product development lifecycle, from ideation to market.
- Excellent project management skills, including budgeting and resource allocation.
- Deep understanding of scientific principles, research methodologies, and experimental design.
- Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to engage diverse stakeholders.
- Ability to attract, develop, and retain top R&D talent.
- Proficiency in data analysis, technical report writing, and scientific publication standards.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology).
- Experience in a similar industry sector (e.g., manufacturing, technology, renewable energy) within Southern Africa.
- Proven track record of successful product launches, patent applications, and intellectual property generation.
- Familiarity with intellectual property law, patenting processes, and technology transfer.
- Experience working with international research collaborations and cross-cultural teams.
- Knowledge of local market dynamics, supply chains, and regulatory environment in Zimbabwe.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
- Extensive professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates moving to Matabeleland North.
- Opportunity to lead transformative projects with significant regional impact.
- Dynamic, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment.
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities and technology.
How to Apply
Please click the application link below to submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and vision for R&D innovation at Career.zycto.
