About Company
Are you ready to lead groundbreaking innovation in a unique, vibrant setting? Career.zycto is pioneering sustainable energy solutions right here in Kariba, leveraging cutting-edge research to address critical environmental and societal needs. We are a forward-thinking organization deeply committed to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and collaborative discovery. For a visionary Director of R&D, this is an unparalleled opportunity to build a world-class team, shape strategic research directions, and see your innovations transform communities. Join us in making a tangible, positive impact through advanced technological development.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an exceptional and visionary Director of Research & Development to spearhead our innovation efforts in sustainable energy. Based in the stunning Kariba region, this pivotal role demands a leader with a profound scientific background, extensive experience in managing complex R&D portfolios, and a passion for driving technological advancements that address real-world challenges. You will be instrumental in defining our long-term research strategy, overseeing all aspects of our research pipeline from conceptualization to prototyping, and ensuring our innovations are aligned with market needs and company objectives. This is a unique opportunity to cultivate a high-performance research culture, attract top scientific talent, and position Career.zycto as a leader in renewable energy solutions within Zimbabwe and beyond. We are looking for someone who thrives on pushing boundaries, fostering intellectual curiosity, and translating ambitious ideas into scalable, impactful technologies. If you possess an entrepreneurial spirit combined with rigorous scientific acumen, and are eager to make a significant contribution to sustainable development, we invite you to explore this exciting challenge.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and execute the overall R&D strategy, ensuring alignment with Career.zycto's long-term business goals and market opportunities in sustainable energy.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
- Oversee the entire research and development lifecycle, from initial ideation and feasibility studies to experimentation, prototyping, and eventual product commercialization.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and timelines effectively, ensuring optimal allocation and timely delivery of research milestones.
- Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and intellectual curiosity within the R&D department, encouraging new ideas and scientific exploration.
- Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with academic institutions, industry experts, government bodies, and technology providers to enhance research capabilities and outreach.
- Ensure strict compliance with all relevant regulatory standards, safety protocols, and ethical guidelines pertinent to R&D activities in the renewable energy sector.
- Present comprehensive research findings, progress reports, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership, board members, and external stakeholders.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, market trends, and research opportunities that can provide a competitive advantage or address critical societal needs.
- Drive intellectual property generation, including patents and publications, to protect and leverage Career.zycto's innovative solutions.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline such as Renewable Energy, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Research & Development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or management capacity.
- Demonstrated track record of successful innovation, product development, and commercialization of new technologies, preferably in the sustainable energy sector.
- Profound understanding of various sustainable energy technologies (e.g., solar, hydro, wind, biomass) and the associated industry trends, challenges, and regulatory landscapes.
- Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical prowess, problem-solving abilities, and robust decision-making skills in a dynamic R&D environment.
- Proven leadership capabilities, with a strong ability to build, inspire, and manage high-performing multidisciplinary teams.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging effectively with technical teams, senior management, and external partners.
- Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools to oversee complex R&D projects from inception to completion.
- Experience with budget management and resource allocation within an R&D department.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working specifically in emerging markets or developing economies, with an understanding of local challenges and opportunities in infrastructure and energy.
- A portfolio of patents, significant peer-reviewed publications, or notable contributions to scientific literature in the field of sustainable energy.
- Familiarity with grant writing, securing research funding from national and international bodies, and managing funded projects.
- Experience with technology transfer processes, licensing agreements, and bringing research from laboratory to commercial scale.
- Multilingual proficiency, especially in local Zimbabwean languages (e.g., Shona, Ndebele), is considered a significant advantage.
- Membership in relevant professional engineering or scientific associations.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and a performance-based bonus structure.
- Comprehensive health insurance package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with robust wellness programs.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and observance of public holidays.
- Relocation assistance package for eligible candidates moving to the Kariba region.
- Significant opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and attendance at international conferences.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities, advanced equipment, and cutting-edge technological resources.
- A vibrant, inclusive, and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and intellectual growth.
- The chance to make a tangible and significant impact on sustainable development and local communities.
- Stunning natural surroundings in Kariba, offering a unique quality of life and opportunities for outdoor activities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a detailed cover letter outlining their relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and vision for sustainable R&D. Please click on the application link below to apply for this exciting opportunity. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates how your skills and experience align with the specific requirements and strategic objectives of this Director of R&D role at Career.zycto.
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