About Company
Leading innovation from concept to market is at the core of our mission at Career.zycto. We are a dynamic agri-tech firm, passionately committed to developing sustainable solutions that redefine agricultural productivity in Zimbabwe and beyond. A Director of R&D here finds a vibrant ecosystem for groundbreaking work, collaborating with brilliant minds to solve real-world challenges. We empower our leaders with the autonomy and resources to drive significant scientific and technological advancements. Join us and make a tangible impact on food security and agricultural efficiency, shaping the future of farming with cutting-edge research and development.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an visionary and results-driven Director of Research & Development to spearhead our innovation efforts in Kadoma, Mashonaland West Province. In this pivotal leadership role, you will be responsible for defining and executing the strategic direction of our R&D initiatives, driving the creation of next-generation agricultural technologies and solutions. You will lead a talented team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and excellence. This position requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of agricultural science, product development lifecycles, and a proven track record of bringing innovative products to market. If you are passionate about transforming agriculture through science and technology, and thrive in an environment where your leadership directly impacts societal and economic progress, we encourage you to apply.
As Director of R&D, you will play a critical role in identifying emerging trends, evaluating new technologies, and ensuring our research portfolio aligns with market demands and business objectives. You will manage complex projects from ideation through commercialization, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute significantly to our growth and success, driving advancements that will benefit farmers and communities across Zimbabwe and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
- Formulate and execute the long-term R&D strategy, aligning with overall business goals and market trends.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of R&D professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from concept generation and feasibility studies to prototyping, testing, and commercialization.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and timelines effectively to ensure project success and financial accountability.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, partnerships, and intellectual property opportunities.
- Establish and maintain robust quality control and regulatory compliance standards for all research activities and product outputs.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and sales teams to ensure successful product launches and market adoption.
- Represent the company at industry conferences, scientific forums, and stakeholder meetings.
- Monitor competitive landscape and technological advancements to maintain Career.zycto's leadership position in agri-tech.
Required Skills
- PhD in Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, Agronomy, or a related scientific/engineering field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in an R&D environment, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial capacity.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic R&D roadmaps.
- Strong project management skills, including experience with agile methodologies.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Proven track record of successful product development and commercialization in the agricultural sector.
- In-depth knowledge of current agricultural practices, challenges, and technological solutions.
- Proficiency in data analysis, experimental design, and scientific reporting.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with grant writing and securing research funding.
- Familiarity with intellectual property management and patent processes.
- Strong network within the agricultural research community in Zimbabwe or Southern Africa.
- MBA or equivalent business management qualification.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
- Professional development opportunities and continuous learning programs.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Opportunity to lead transformative projects with significant societal impact.
- A collaborative and innovative work environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and a compelling cover letter outlining their qualifications and vision for this role. Please ensure your application highlights your experience in leading R&D initiatives and your contributions to agricultural innovation. To apply, please click on the link below.
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