About Company
Seed Co Limited is a leading African seed company, established to serve the needs of farmers across the continent. With a rich history spanning decades, we are dedicated to developing and marketing superior crop varieties, primarily maize, wheat, soya beans, and horticultural crops. Our mission is deeply rooted in enhancing food security, improving livelihoods, and contributing to sustainable agricultural growth through innovative research and quality seed production. Operating across Zimbabwe and other sub-Saharan African countries, Seed Co is committed to scientific excellence, environmental stewardship, and empowering communities. Our R&D efforts are at the core of our success, driving genetic improvements, disease resistance, and climate resilience to address the continent’s unique agricultural challenges. Join our dynamic team and be a part of an organization that is literally planting the seeds for Africa’s future.
Job Description
We are seeking an visionary and highly accomplished Director of Research & Development (R&D) to lead our pioneering efforts in agricultural science and innovation at our Mashonaland Central operations. This pivotal role will be responsible for defining, directing, and executing Seed Co’s long-term R&D strategy, ensuring the continuous development of high-performing, resilient, and market-relevant crop varieties. The Director of R&D will champion scientific excellence, foster a culture of innovation, and drive groundbreaking research that addresses critical agricultural challenges such as climate change, soil degradation, and pest/disease pressures specific to the Zimbabwean and broader African context. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, breeders, and technicians, managing complex projects from conception through to commercialization. This position demands a strategic thinker with profound scientific expertise, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a proven track record in translating research into tangible agricultural solutions. If you are passionate about agricultural innovation and eager to make a significant impact on food security and farmer prosperity in Africa, we invite you to lead our R&D journey.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement Seed Co's comprehensive R&D strategy, aligning it with business objectives and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a diverse team of scientists, breeders, and technical staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
- Oversee all aspects of crop breeding programs, genetic improvement, biotechnology applications, and seed pathology research.
- Manage the R&D budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence to financial targets.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies, methodologies, and scientific breakthroughs into current research practices.
- Establish and maintain collaborations with national and international research institutions, universities, and industry partners.
- Ensure strict adherence to ethical guidelines, regulatory requirements, and intellectual property protection protocols.
- Monitor and evaluate research progress, ensuring timely delivery of milestones and successful project completion.
- Present research findings, strategic updates, and recommendations to executive leadership and external stakeholders.
- Drive the commercialization process of new seed varieties, working closely with production, marketing, and sales teams.
- Stay abreast of global agricultural trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape to inform strategic decisions.
Required Skills
- PhD in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, Genetics, Biotechnology, or a related agricultural science field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in agricultural research and development, with at least 5 years in a leadership or senior management role.
- Demonstrated expertise in crop breeding principles, quantitative genetics, molecular biology, and field trial management.
- Strong understanding of the agricultural sector in sub-Saharan Africa, including prevalent crops, challenges, and opportunities.
- Proven ability to lead, inspire, and manage large, multidisciplinary scientific teams.
- Exceptional project management skills, with experience overseeing complex R&D initiatives from concept to commercialization.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with diverse audiences.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis software and research methodologies.
- Strategic planning and budget management acumen.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working specifically with maize, wheat, soya bean, or horticultural crops.
- Established network within the global agricultural research community.
- Track record of successful grant applications and securing research funding.
- Familiarity with intellectual property laws and patenting processes in agriculture.
- Experience in product development and commercialization within the seed industry.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive annual salary.
- Comprehensive health insurance plan.
- Retirement savings program.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- A challenging and rewarding role with significant impact on food security in Africa.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technologies.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the link below. Please ensure your comprehensive CV and a detailed cover letter outlining your vision for agricultural R&D at Seed Co, relevant experience, and leadership philosophy are attached. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.