About Company
Shaping the future of HR technology and talent acquisition, Career.zycto is at the forefront of innovation within the Zimbabwean and broader African markets. We are a dynamic, forward-thinking firm dedicated to developing cutting-edge solutions that redefine how businesses connect with talent. For a visionary Director of R&D, this presents an unparalleled opportunity to lead ground-breaking projects, cultivate a culture of scientific inquiry, and directly influence our strategic trajectory. Here, your expertise will not just contribute; it will revolutionize, driving us towards new frontiers in our mission to empower organizations through transformative tech.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking a dynamic and visionary Director of Research & Development to spearhead our innovation efforts from our Masvingo base. This pivotal role requires a strategic leader who can cultivate a culture of scientific inquiry, drive technological advancements, and translate complex research into tangible, market-leading solutions. As the Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in defining and executing our research roadmap, ensuring our offerings remain at the cutting edge of the HR technology and talent acquisition landscape.
You will lead a talented team of researchers and developers, fostering an environment that encourages experimentation, intellectual curiosity, and rigorous problem-solving. Your responsibilities will span the entire R&D lifecycle, from conceptualization and feasibility studies to prototyping, testing, and eventual integration of new technologies and methodologies into our core products and services. This includes exploring emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, data analytics, and blockchain to identify their potential applications in enhancing recruitment efficiency, candidate experience, and talent management.
Beyond technical leadership, you will also be a key strategic partner, collaborating closely with product development, marketing, and executive leadership to align R&D initiatives with overall business objectives and market demands. You will manage the R&D budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to maximize impact and ROI. Furthermore, you will be responsible for intellectual property strategy, identifying opportunities for patents, publications, and fostering academic collaborations that elevate Career.zycto’s standing as an innovation leader.
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This is more than a leadership position; it’s an opportunity to leave a significant mark on an evolving industry. We are looking for a thought leader who is passionate about creating impact, enjoys mentoring brilliant minds, and thrives in a fast-paced, forward-thinking environment. If you possess an entrepreneurial spirit, a deep technical background, and a proven track record of bringing innovative ideas to fruition, we invite you to explore this exciting challenge with Career.zycto.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with Career.zycto's overall business goals and market trends.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Oversee the entire R&D project portfolio, ensuring timely delivery, adherence to budgets, and high-quality outcomes.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML, data science) to create novel HR tech solutions.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and facilities efficiently, reporting on performance and strategic impact.
- Establish and maintain intellectual property strategies, including patent applications and publication opportunities.
- Collaborate with product management, engineering, and sales teams to translate R&D outcomes into market-ready products.
Required Skills
- Proven leadership and team management skills in an R&D or technical environment.
- Strong background in software development, data science, AI/ML, or related fields.
- Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and budgets.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for internal and external stakeholder engagement.
- Deep understanding of the HR technology landscape and emerging industry trends.
- Ability to drive innovation from concept to commercialization.
Preferred Qualifications
- PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Experience in intellectual property management and patenting processes.
- Track record of successful product launches driven by R&D initiatives.
- Familiarity with agile development methodologies in an R&D context.
- Publications or presentations in relevant scientific or industry forums.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
- Generous paid time off and flexible working arrangements.
- Professional development opportunities, including conferences and certifications.
- Opportunity to lead cutting-edge innovation in a growing industry.
- Collaborative and supportive work environment with a focus on impact.
- Dedicated innovation budget and resources for exploratory projects.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter clearly outline your relevant experience and vision for leading R&D.
