About Company
Pioneering innovation in a dynamic market, Career.zycto empowers visionary leaders to transform concepts into tangible solutions. We are a forward-thinking organization dedicated to sustainable growth and impactful development within Matabeleland North. For a Director of R&D, we offer an unparalleled opportunity to build a research pipeline from the ground up, shaping our strategic direction and leaving a lasting legacy. Your expertise will drive our commitment to excellence, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and practical application in areas crucial to regional advancement. Join us to make a real difference.
Advertisement
Job Description
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and visionary Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation initiatives in Lupane, Matabeleland North Province. This pivotal role will be instrumental in defining our strategic research agenda, fostering a culture of innovation, and building a high-performing R&D team from the ground up. The Director of R&D will oversee the entire product and solution development lifecycle, from initial conceptualization and feasibility studies to prototyping, testing, and eventual deployment. You will manage complex projects, ensuring scientific rigor, adherence to ethical standards, and precise alignment with our overarching business objectives and the specific needs of the region.
This is a unique and challenging opportunity for a leader who is passionate about establishing and expanding our research capabilities across various sectors relevant to the region’s growth, such as sustainable agriculture technologies, renewable energy solutions, and community-based technological advancements. The successful candidate will act as a catalyst for groundbreaking discoveries, responsible for effective budget management, securing strategic partnerships, and translating complex research findings into actionable, market-ready products or services. We are looking for an individual who thrives on intellectual challenge, possesses exceptional problem-solving acumen, and can inspire, mentor, and guide a diverse team of dedicated researchers and engineers. Your leadership will directly impact our ability to deliver innovative solutions that address critical local and regional challenges, unlocking new opportunities within Lupane and beyond. Furthermore, you will be tasked with staying abreast of global technological trends, rigorously assessing their applicability to our context, and seamlessly integrating them into our local development framework. This position demands not just scientific expertise but also a profound understanding of market dynamics and an unwavering passion for impactful, sustainable innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Define, develop, and execute the overall R&D strategy, ensuring alignment with the company’s vision and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a multidisciplinary R&D team, fostering a dynamic culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the entire product/solution development lifecycle, from ideation and feasibility studies to prototyping, testing, and deployment.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and project timelines effectively to ensure efficient and timely delivery of key initiatives.
- Establish and maintain strategic collaborations with academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies to leverage external expertise and funding opportunities.
- Ensure all research and development activities comply with relevant regulatory standards, ethical guidelines, and quality assurance protocols.
- Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and scientific advancements relevant to our industry and integrate them into our strategic roadmap.
- Present R&D findings, progress, and strategic recommendations clearly and persuasively to senior leadership and key stakeholders.
- Drive intellectual property creation and management, protecting novel innovations and securing competitive advantages.
Required Skills
- Proven leadership and exceptional team management capabilities, with experience building and scaling R&D teams.
- Strong strategic planning and execution skills, capable of translating vision into tangible outcomes.
- Expertise in advanced research methodologies, experimental design, and comprehensive project management.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific concepts and research findings into actionable business strategies and product roadmaps.
- Proficiency in budget management, resource allocation, and financial oversight of R&D operations.
- Demonstrated ability to foster innovation, solve complex problems creatively, and navigate technical challenges.
- In-depth knowledge of relevant industry standards, regulatory frameworks, and intellectual property processes.
Preferred Qualifications
- PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Agricultural Science, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science, Biotechnology, Computer Science).
- Extensive experience working in emerging markets or developing economies, understanding local contexts and resource constraints.
- Track record of successful product or solution commercialization, bringing innovations from lab to market.
- Familiarity with grant writing and securing research funding from national and international bodies.
- Experience in intellectual property management, patent application processes, and technology transfer.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits for you and your family.
- Robust professional development and continuous learning opportunities to advance your expertise.
- Relocation assistance provided for qualified candidates moving to Lupane.
- Unparalleled opportunity to lead groundbreaking projects with significant regional and societal impact.
- Supportive, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment.
- Generous paid time off, holidays, and flexible work arrangements where applicable.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter. Please detail your relevant experience in strategic innovation, team leadership, and your vision for leading R&D at Career.zycto, specifically addressing how your expertise aligns with our mission in Matabeleland North.
Advertisement
