About Company
At Career.zycto, we believe innovation is the bedrock of progress, particularly in the vital agricultural sector of Manicaland Province. We are a dynamic, forward-thinking enterprise committed to developing sustainable and impactful solutions that uplift local communities and drive economic growth. For a pioneering Director of R&D, this presents an unparalleled opportunity to lead ground-breaking projects from conception to implementation, making a tangible difference. Join a team where your vision for scientific advancement and practical application can truly flourish, transforming challenges into opportunities within a supportive and resourceful environment.
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Job Description
As Director of Research & Development at Career.zycto, you will be the visionary leader at the forefront of our innovation efforts, spearheading the creation of cutting-edge agricultural technologies and sustainable practices tailored for the unique landscape and needs of Buhera, Manicaland Province. This pivotal role demands a blend of scientific expertise, strategic thinking, and strong leadership to drive our R&D initiatives from concept to commercialization.
You will be instrumental in defining our long-term research strategy, identifying emerging trends, and translating complex scientific principles into practical, scalable solutions. Your work will directly impact agricultural productivity, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability in the region. This is more than a leadership position; it’s an opportunity to cultivate a culture of relentless inquiry, experimentation, and excellence within your team.
We are seeking a seasoned professional who can not only manage research projects but also inspire a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and agronomists. You will foster collaboration, mentor talent, and ensure that our R&D pipeline remains robust, innovative, and aligned with Career.zycto’s strategic objectives and the aspirations of our community stakeholders. From developing drought-resistant crop varieties to precision farming techniques and value-added agricultural products, your contributions will be central to our mission.
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The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of agricultural science, strong project management capabilities, and a proven track record of successful product development or research outcomes. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire R&D lifecycle, including budget management, resource allocation, intellectual property protection, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and ethical standards. If you are passionate about agricultural innovation, possess a keen analytical mind, and are ready to lead a team that makes a real-world difference, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the chance to build a legacy of scientific advancement and agricultural prosperity in Zimbabwe.
Key Responsibilities
- Define, develop, and execute the company's long-term R&D strategy in alignment with business goals and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team of researchers, scientists, and technicians.
- Oversee the entire R&D project lifecycle, from ideation and conceptualization to prototyping, testing, and commercialization.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, research methodologies, and innovative solutions relevant to sustainable agriculture.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and timelines to ensure projects are delivered efficiently and effectively.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the R&D department.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies for collaborative research opportunities.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with regulatory standards, ethical guidelines, and intellectual property requirements.
- Present research findings, project updates, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and stakeholders.
- Drive the protection of intellectual property through patents and other appropriate mechanisms.
Required Skills
- Proven leadership and team management skills.
- Strategic planning and execution expertise.
- Strong project management capabilities.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Deep understanding of agricultural science and sustainable practices.
- Budget management and resource allocation proficiency.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to innovate and drive technological advancement.
- Experience with intellectual property management.
- Proficiency in scientific research methodologies and data analysis.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, Agricultural Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field.
- Experience working in agricultural R&D within Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Demonstrated success in bringing agricultural products or solutions from concept to market.
- Publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals or patents.
- Knowledge of specific regional agricultural challenges and opportunities in Zimbabwe.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Relocation assistance (if applicable).
- A collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on agricultural sustainability in the region.
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the link below. Please submit your comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and vision for agricultural R&D. Ensure your application highlights how your skills and expertise align with the strategic goals of Career.zycto.
