About Company
Imagine a future shaped by your vision. Career.zycto partners with innovative enterprises across Africa, connecting top-tier talent with groundbreaking opportunities. We are currently recruiting on behalf of a pioneering manufacturing firm based in Beitbridge, dedicated to advancing sustainable industrial solutions for the region. This organization fosters a culture of relentless inquiry, continuous improvement, and collaborative innovation, making it an exceptional environment for a Director of R&D passionate about turning visionary concepts into tangible impact. Join a team where your leadership directly influences the trajectory of product development and market leadership.
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Job Description
As the Director of R&D, you will be the driving force behind the innovation pipeline for our client, a leading manufacturing firm based in Beitbridge. This pivotal leadership role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in product development, process optimization, and team management within a fast-paced industrial environment. You will be responsible for defining the research and development strategy, overseeing all R&D projects from conception to commercialization, and fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous improvement.
Your leadership will be instrumental in identifying new market opportunities, evaluating emerging technologies, and guiding the development of cutting-edge products that meet evolving customer needs and stringent quality standards. This role requires not only deep technical expertise but also strong business acumen to ensure R&D initiatives align with overall company objectives and contribute significantly to growth and profitability. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including production, marketing, and sales, to ensure seamless integration of new products and technologies into existing operations. Beyond technical oversight, you will mentor and develop a high-performing R&D team, championing best practices in research methodologies, experimental design, and intellectual property management. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader capable of inspiring innovation, managing complex projects, and driving sustainable competitive advantage through technological advancement.
Key Responsibilities
- Formulate and execute the R&D strategy aligned with the company's long-term business goals and market demands.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a team of R&D engineers and scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and conceptualization to prototyping, testing, and successful market launch.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and project timelines to ensure efficient and effective execution of all initiatives.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, materials, and processes to enhance product performance, reduce costs, and improve manufacturing efficiency.
- Collaborate closely with production, quality assurance, marketing, and sales departments to ensure seamless product integration and market success.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and intellectual property guidelines.
- Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with external research institutions, suppliers, and technology providers.
- Present R&D progress, challenges, and opportunities to senior management and key stakeholders.
- Drive intellectual property creation and management, including patent applications and trade secret protection.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in R&D, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Demonstrated experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment, preferably in materials science, mechanical engineering, or chemical engineering.
- Proven track record of successfully bringing new products from concept to commercialization.
- Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate technical professionals.
- Exceptional project management capabilities, including budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline management.
- Deep understanding of research methodologies, experimental design, and data analysis.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in English; knowledge of local languages (Shona, Ndebele) is an advantage.
- Strategic thinking with a strong business acumen and understanding of market dynamics.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Materials Science), Industrial Design, or a related scientific field.
- Experience with lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Familiarity with intellectual property law and patent application processes.
- Previous experience operating within the Zimbabwean or Southern African industrial landscape.
- Postgraduate qualifications in Business Administration or Project Management.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Opportunity to lead transformative projects and shape the future of a growing company.
- A collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Company-provided housing allowance or assistance.
- Pension scheme contributions.
How to Apply
Are you ready to lead innovation and drive product excellence? We invite visionary leaders to join our client’s dynamic team. To apply, please click on the link below. Ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your relevant R&D leadership experience and strategic contributions.
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