About Company
Career.zycto is at the forefront of connecting transformative talent with organizations poised for groundbreaking advancements. We champion innovation, fostering environments where pioneering ideas can flourish and shape the future. For a Director of R&D, Career.zycto represents an unparalleled opportunity to lead strategic initiatives, drive cutting-edge research, and cultivate a culture of scientific excellence. We offer a platform where your vision for innovation can translate into tangible impact, contributing significantly to advancements within vital sectors across Zimbabwe’s dynamic landscape. Join us to make a lasting mark.
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Job Description
We are seeking a visionary and results-oriented Director of R&D to lead our innovative research and development initiatives within the agricultural technology sector. As a pivotal leader, you will be responsible for defining and executing our long-term R&D strategy, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives and market needs. This role demands a unique blend of scientific expertise, strategic thinking, and strong leadership capabilities to drive product innovation from concept to commercialization. You will manage a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture focused on delivering disruptive solutions for sustainable agriculture in Zimbabwe and beyond.
The Director of R&D will champion the exploration of new technologies, methodologies, and partnerships that enhance our product portfolio and competitive edge. This includes overseeing the entire product development lifecycle, managing budgets, intellectual property strategies, and ensuring compliance with all relevant industry standards and regulations. Your leadership will be critical in identifying emerging trends, evaluating their potential impact, and guiding the team to develop innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by modern agriculture. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of agricultural science, biotechnology, data analytics, and engineering principles, coupled with a proven track record of successful R&D project delivery in complex environments. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of agricultural technology and contribute to food security and economic growth in the region.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with the company's long-term business goals and market demands within agricultural technology.
- Lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and concept generation through prototyping, testing, validation, and successful commercialization.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and timelines effectively, ensuring projects are delivered on schedule and within financial parameters.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies, scientific advancements, and strategic partnerships that enhance the company's innovation capabilities.
- Establish and maintain robust intellectual property strategies to protect proprietary technologies and innovations.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and ethical guidelines.
- Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer needs to proactively identify opportunities for new product development and improvement.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, sales, production, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless product launches and market acceptance.
- Present R&D progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and key stakeholders.
Required Skills
- Proven leadership experience in R&D management, preferably in agricultural technology or a related scientific field.
- Strong understanding of agricultural science, biotechnology, sustainable farming practices, and data analytics.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute complex R&D strategies and roadmaps.
- Exceptional project management skills, with experience managing multiple projects concurrently.
- Proficiency in budget management, resource allocation, and risk assessment.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Experience in intellectual property management and protection.
- Ability to foster a collaborative and innovative team environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, Agronomy, or a closely related scientific or engineering discipline.
- MBA or equivalent business management qualification.
- Experience working in a fast-paced startup or high-growth environment.
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks pertaining to agricultural products and technologies in Africa.
- Track record of successful product launches and market penetration.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- A dynamic and supportive work environment committed to innovation.
- Contribution to meaningful work that impacts food security and sustainable development.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter clearly outline your relevant experience, qualifications, and vision for leading R&D.
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