About Company
Innovating for a sustainable future in agriculture requires visionary leadership. Career.zycto connects exceptional talent with groundbreaking opportunities, and we are currently partnering with a forward-thinking agricultural technology firm deeply committed to enhancing productivity and sustainability within Zimbabwe’s vibrant agricultural sector. This presents a unique chance for a Director of R&D to drive cutting-edge research and development initiatives. We seek a leader eager to make a tangible impact, shaping the next generation of agri-tech solutions in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment where innovation is not just encouraged, but expected. Join us in cultivating a better tomorrow.
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Job Description
The Director of R&D will be a pivotal figure in our partner’s mission to revolutionize agricultural practices across Mashonaland Central and beyond. This leadership role demands a blend of scientific acumen, strategic foresight, and exceptional managerial capabilities to spearhead all research and development activities. You will be responsible for defining the R&D strategy, overseeing its execution, and ensuring that our innovations align with market needs and business objectives. From concept ideation and prototype development to rigorous field trials and successful commercialization support, you will guide a dedicated team of scientists, engineers, and agronomists, inspiring them to achieve their full potential and foster a collaborative spirit.
This role involves driving technological advancements in areas such as precision agriculture, crop science, sustainable farming practices, irrigation optimization, and innovative agro-processing techniques. You will be instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, scientific rigor, and data-driven decision-making, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing across various departments. A critical aspect of your work will be to proactively identify emerging global and local trends in agricultural technology, meticulously evaluate new scientific methodologies and technologies, and assess their potential applicability and impact within our unique operating environment in Zimbabwe. Furthermore, you will manage significant R&D budgets effectively, secure and protect intellectual property, and ensure strict compliance with all relevant local and international regulatory standards.
The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of agricultural challenges specific to the sub-Saharan African context, coupled with a proven track record of successfully bringing innovative products or solutions from conceptualization through to market adoption. You will actively engage with key external stakeholders, including leading research institutions, government bodies, local farming communities, and industry partners, to leverage strategic collaborations and grants that significantly amplify our R&D impact. This is more than a scientific management role; it’s a strategic leadership position that will directly influence the sustainability, efficiency, and profitability of agriculture, contributing significantly to local food security and economic growth in the Mashonaland Central region and Zimbabwe as a whole. We are looking for a visionary who can translate complex scientific concepts into practical, impactful, and scalable solutions that empower farmers, enhance resilience, and ultimately transform the agricultural landscape for generations to come.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the overall R&D strategy aligned with business goals and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and agronomists, fostering a high-performance culture.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from concept ideation and prototype development to rigorous field trials and commercialization.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies and scientific breakthroughs relevant to agricultural science and practice.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and project timelines effectively to ensure efficient allocation and delivery.
- Ensure strict compliance with all local and international regulatory standards and ethical guidelines for agricultural research.
- Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with academic institutions, government bodies, and industry experts to leverage external expertise and funding.
- Protect intellectual property through patents, trade secrets, and other legal mechanisms.
- Communicate R&D progress, challenges, and opportunities clearly and concisely to executive leadership and relevant stakeholders.
- Drive a culture of innovation, scientific excellence, and continuous improvement within the R&D department.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a closely related scientific field.
- Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in research and development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or management role.
- Proven track record of successful product development, innovation, and commercialization within the agricultural sector.
- Strong understanding of agricultural practices, challenges, and environmental conditions specific to sub-Saharan Africa.
- Expertise in areas such as precision agriculture, crop science, sustainable farming practices, irrigation technologies, or agro-processing.
- Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal communication skills, with ability to inspire and motivate teams.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex R&D projects, significant budgets, and cross-functional teams effectively.
- Proficiency in scientific research methodologies, statistical data analysis, and experimental design.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or an equivalent business management qualification.
- Extensive experience with grant writing and securing research funding from national and international bodies.
- Familiarity with intellectual property law and patent application processes.
- An established network of contacts within the Zimbabwean agricultural research community, government, and industry.
- Bilingual proficiency in English and a local Zimbabwean language (e.g., Shona, Ndebele).
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience and impact, including performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits for you and your family.
- Company vehicle and generous fuel allowance.
- Relocation assistance package for eligible candidates moving to Mashonaland Central.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
- Significant professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
- The unique opportunity to lead transformative projects with significant national and regional impact on food security.
- A collaborative, innovative, and intellectually stimulating work environment.
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities and technologies.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the link below. Please submit your comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience, leadership achievements, and your vision for driving R&D in agricultural technology within the Zimbabwean context. Highlight specific examples that demonstrate your innovation capabilities and ability to bring solutions to market.
