About Company
Career.zycto is at the forefront of connecting visionary leaders with groundbreaking opportunities across Africa. We empower professionals to shape the future, driving innovation and sustainable growth for our partner organizations. As a leading recruitment specialist, we pride ourselves on identifying and nurturing top-tier talent who are ready to make a significant impact. We offer an environment where strategic thinking, creativity, and a passion for discovery are not just valued but are essential to our collective success. Join us and lead the charge in scientific and technological advancement.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is excited to announce a pivotal opportunity for a visionary and dynamic Director of Research & Development to join a pioneering enterprise operating within Chinhoyi, Mashonaland West Province. This is an unparalleled chance to spearhead innovation, drive scientific discovery, and translate cutting-edge research into tangible products and solutions that will significantly impact our market and the broader community. The successful candidate will be a strategic leader responsible for charting the course of our R&D initiatives, building and nurturing a high-performing team, and fostering a culture of continuous innovation and excellence. You will be at the nexus of scientific inquiry and commercial application, guiding projects from conceptualization through to market launch. This role demands not only deep technical expertise but also exceptional leadership acumen, a keen understanding of market trends, and the ability to inspire and mentor scientific talent. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and eager to lead an impactful R&D division in a vibrant, growing region, we invite you to explore this challenging and rewarding position. Your strategic oversight will be critical in defining our technological future and maintaining our competitive edge, ensuring that our advancements contribute meaningfully to the industry and society. This role involves comprehensive oversight of the entire R&D lifecycle, from ideation to commercialization, requiring a blend of scientific rigor and business acumen. You will be expected to build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, external partners, and academic institutions to foster a collaborative and innovative ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
- Define, develop, and execute the R&D strategy aligned with the company's overall business objectives and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and grow a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from ideation, feasibility studies, prototyping, testing, to successful market launch.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and timelines effectively to ensure projects are delivered on scope, on time, and within budget.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, market trends, and scientific advancements to maintain a competitive edge.
- Establish and maintain strong intellectual property strategies, including patent applications and trade secret protection.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, marketing, sales, and regulatory teams to ensure seamless product integration and commercialization.
- Ensure all research and development activities comply with relevant industry standards, quality systems, and regulatory requirements.
- Represent the company at industry conferences, scientific forums, and collaborate with academic and research institutions.
Required Skills
- PhD or Master's degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Biotechnology, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering).
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Research & Development, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Proven track record of successfully leading R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
- Strong understanding of product development processes, project management methodologies, and intellectual property management.
- Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets and resources effectively.
- Proficiency in data analysis and scientific reporting.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in the Agritech, Industrial Biotechnology, or specialty chemicals sectors.
- Prior experience working in or with organizations in emerging markets, particularly Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Demonstrated experience in building and managing a patent portfolio.
- Understanding of regulatory frameworks pertinent to product development in Zimbabwe and the region.
- PMP certification or similar project management qualification.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience and impact.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and executive leadership training.
- Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Chinhoyi.
- A dynamic, innovative, and supportive work environment.
- Pension scheme contributions.
- Annual performance bonus based on company and individual achievements.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit a comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and why they are passionate about this role. Please click on the application link below to proceed with your application.
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