About Company
Career.zycto is a dynamic and forward-thinking organization committed to fostering innovation and driving technological advancement across various sectors. We pride ourselves on creating an environment where visionary leaders can thrive, transform ideas into tangible products, and make a significant impact. We believe in empowering our teams to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, ensuring our solutions consistently meet global standards of excellence. For a Director of R&D, our collaborative culture and commitment to cutting-edge research offer an unparalleled platform to lead strategic initiatives and shape the future.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is actively seeking a visionary and highly experienced Director of Research & Development to spearhead our innovation efforts in Bulawayo. This pivotal leadership role will be responsible for defining and executing our long-term R&D strategy, driving the development of groundbreaking products, processes, and services that will shape our future and solidify our market position. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, scientific rigor, and creativity. The Director of R&D will play a critical role in bridging scientific discovery with commercial viability, ensuring our research initiatives not only align with global market needs and evolving customer demands but also directly contribute to our overarching business objectives and growth trajectory. This involves meticulous market analysis, understanding competitive landscapes, and identifying emerging trends to proactively steer our developmental pathways.
Your mandate will encompass overseeing the entire R&D lifecycle, from initial concept generation and exhaustive feasibility studies through to meticulous product prototyping, rigorous testing, and eventual successful commercialization. This requires not only profound scientific and technical acumen but also exceptional strategic planning, robust project management capabilities, and inspiring people leadership skills. The successful candidate will be a proactive and agile problem-solver, adept at navigating complex technical and operational challenges, and profoundly capable of inspiring their team to achieve ambitious goals. Furthermore, you will be instrumental in securing and managing our intellectual property portfolio, fostering synergistic external collaborations with leading academic institutions and industry partners, and staying relentlessly abreast of global technological advancements and dynamic regulatory changes. This is an unparalleled opportunity to infuse your strategic vision into the core of our innovation ecosystem, shaping the future of our offerings and making a tangible impact within a growing and ambitious organization dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Key Responsibilities
- Formulate and implement the overarching R&D strategy, ensuring alignment with the company's long-term business goals and market trends.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from conceptualization and research to prototyping, testing, and successful market launch.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and timelines effectively, ensuring projects are delivered on schedule and within financial parameters.
- Establish and maintain strong intellectual property protections, including patents and trade secrets.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, market opportunities, and potential strategic partnerships to enhance our innovation pipeline.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant industry standards, quality regulations, and ethical guidelines.
Required Skills
- PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Chemistry, Biotechnology, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering).
- Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in R&D, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or directorial role.
- Demonstrated track record of successfully leading product development from concept to commercialization.
- Strong understanding of intellectual property management and regulatory landscapes relevant to the industry.
- Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Proven ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and cross-functional teams.
- Strategic thinker with a strong analytical mindset and problem-solving abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or equivalent business management qualification.
- Experience in a global R&D environment with exposure to diverse markets and cultures.
- Extensive network within academic institutions, research organizations, and industry bodies.
- Proficiency in advanced data analysis tools and R&D specific software.
- Experience with grant writing and securing external funding for research projects.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous retirement savings plan.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Company car or car allowance.
- Flexible working arrangements (where applicable).
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter detailing their relevant experience and leadership philosophy. Please clearly state your salary expectations. Click on the application link below to apply for this job.
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