About Company
Pioneering innovation in a dynamic landscape requires visionary leadership. Career.zycto excels at connecting exceptional talent with groundbreaking opportunities across diverse industries, focusing on sustainable growth and technological advancement within Zimbabwe. We partner with leading organizations dedicated to pushing boundaries, offering a unique platform for high-impact professionals. This is an environment where your strategic insights and commitment to research excellence will directly shape the future. Join us in building a legacy of impactful discoveries, fostering a culture of curiosity, and driving forward-thinking solutions that address real-world challenges. Your expertise as a Director of R&D will thrive here.
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Job Description
We are seeking a visionary and highly experienced Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation initiatives for a prominent client in the Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe. This pivotal role demands a leader who can strategically plan, direct, and oversee all R&D activities, ensuring the development of cutting-edge products, services, or processes that align with market demands and long-term business objectives. The successful candidate will be instrumental in fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, innovation, and continuous improvement within the R&D department. You will be responsible for defining the strategic direction of research projects, managing budgets, optimizing resource allocation, and building high-performing teams. This role involves close collaboration with executive leadership, production, marketing, and sales departments to translate market insights and company vision into tangible R&D outcomes. You will champion intellectual property development, ensure compliance with relevant regulations, and drive the adoption of best practices in research methodologies and project management. The Director of R&D will play a critical role in positioning our client at the forefront of their industry through groundbreaking advancements and a commitment to excellence. We are looking for someone with a proven track record of bringing innovative solutions from concept to commercialization, demonstrating strong leadership and strategic foresight.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with the client’s overall business goals.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from ideation, concept generation, prototyping, testing, to commercialization.
- Manage the R&D budget effectively, ensuring optimal resource allocation and project prioritization.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, market trends, and scientific advancements relevant to the industry.
- Establish and maintain strong intellectual property (IP) protection strategies for new developments.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with executive leadership, operations, marketing, and sales to ensure successful product launches and market penetration.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and ethical guidelines.
- Prepare and present regular reports on R&D progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to senior management.
- Drive continuous improvement in R&D processes, methodologies, and tools.
Required Skills
- PhD or Master's degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Chemistry, Biotechnology, Material Science, Mechanical Engineering).
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in R&D, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
- Proven track record of successfully bringing innovative products or solutions to market.
- Strong strategic planning and execution skills.
- Exceptional leadership, team management, and mentoring abilities.
- In-depth knowledge of R&D methodologies, project management, and quality control principles.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets and financial resources.
- Solid understanding of intellectual property rights and patent processes.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a multinational or high-growth company environment.
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks specific to the client's industry in Southern Africa.
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent.
- Experience with open innovation models and strategic partnerships.
- Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software for research insights.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Opportunity to lead transformative projects with significant impact.
- Dynamic and collaborative work environment.
- Retirement savings plan contributions.
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please click on the application link below. Ensure your resume and cover letter clearly highlight your relevant experience, leadership achievements in R&D, and how you meet the requirements of this role. We look forward to reviewing your application.
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