About Company
For a visionary leader in research and development, Career.zycto offers an unparalleled platform to drive innovation within Zimbabwe’s burgeoning industrial landscape. We are a dynamic entity deeply committed to fostering groundbreaking advancements and translating complex ideas into tangible solutions. Join a forward-thinking environment where your strategic insights and scientific acumen will directly influence our trajectory. We champion a culture of continuous learning and collaborative exploration, making us the ideal home for a Director of R&D eager to make a significant, lasting impact.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an exceptional and highly experienced Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation initiatives in Norton, Mashonaland West Province. This pivotal role demands a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving scientific and technological advancements, fostering a culture of innovation, and strategically guiding projects from concept to commercialization. You will be instrumental in defining the future trajectory of our product development and technological capabilities.
The Director of R&D will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our research and development department, including strategic planning, team management, budget allocation, and intellectual property management. We are looking for someone who can inspire and mentor a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, while simultaneously navigating complex technical challenges and market demands. The ideal candidate will possess an innate curiosity, a keen analytical mind, and the ability to translate strategic business objectives into actionable R&D roadmaps.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the scientific and technological future of our operations in Zimbabwe. You will collaborate closely with executive leadership, production, marketing, and sales teams to ensure that our R&D efforts are aligned with overall business goals and deliver sustainable competitive advantages. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, have a knack for problem-solving, and thrive in an environment that values ingenuity and impact, we invite you to explore this exciting leadership role with Career.zycto.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the overall R&D strategy, aligning it with company objectives and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and prototyping to testing and launch.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and timelines effectively to ensure project success.
- Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing within the department.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, materials, and processes to enhance product performance and cost-efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, regulatory requirements, and quality control protocols.
- Manage intellectual property, including patent applications and trade secret protection.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders (production, marketing, sales) and external partners (universities, suppliers).
- Present R&D progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Biotechnology).
- Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in R&D, with at least 8 years in a leadership/management role.
- Proven track record of successful product development and innovation.
- Strong understanding of project management methodologies and tools.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams.
- Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities.
- Expertise in intellectual property management and regulatory compliance.
- Proficiency in data analysis and statistical methods.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a multinational or diverse cultural environment.
- Knowledge of the Zimbabwean industrial landscape and local market dynamics.
- Certification in Project Management (PMP) or Lean Six Sigma.
- Publications or patents in relevant fields.
- Experience with advanced simulation and modeling software.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects with significant impact.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Dynamic and supportive work environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their resume and a detailed cover letter outlining their experience and qualifications for this role. Please ensure your application clearly demonstrates your leadership capabilities and strategic vision in R&D.
