About Company
Pioneering innovation in a dynamic landscape, Career.zycto stands as a beacon for transformative research and development. We are a forward-thinking entity dedicated to advancing solutions that address real-world challenges, particularly within resource optimization and sustainable industrial practices in the Midlands Province. For a Director of R&D, Career.zycto offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape strategic direction, build a high-performing team from the ground up, and drive impactful discoveries that will redefine industry standards. Join us to lead a culture of relentless inquiry and groundbreaking achievement.
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Job Description
The Director of R&D at Career.zycto will assume a pivotal leadership role, steering our innovation agenda and establishing a world-class research and development function in Shurugwi, Midlands Province. This strategic position demands a visionary leader with a profound understanding of scientific principles, technological advancements, and the commercialization pathway for new products, processes, or services. You will be instrumental in defining and executing our R&D strategy, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives, and fostering a culture of continuous innovation and scientific excellence.
This role involves leading and mentoring a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians. You will oversee the entire R&D lifecycle, from concept generation and feasibility studies to prototyping, testing, and eventual implementation. A key focus will be on identifying emerging technologies, market trends, and competitive landscapes to proactively position Career.zycto at the forefront of its industry. The Director will be responsible for managing substantial R&D budgets, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring that all research activities adhere to the highest standards of safety, ethics, and regulatory compliance.
Collaboration will be central to your success. You will forge strong relationships with internal stakeholders across operations, marketing, and executive leadership to translate research outcomes into tangible business value. Furthermore, engaging with external partners, academic institutions, and industry consortia will be crucial for leveraging external expertise and accelerating our innovation pipeline. We are looking for an individual who can inspire, challenge, and empower their team to push the boundaries of what’s possible, driving breakthrough discoveries that contribute significantly to the economic and social development of the region and beyond. Your leadership will directly impact our trajectory, shaping the future of our offerings and cementing Career.zycto’s reputation as an innovation powerhouse.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the overall R&D strategy aligned with company vision and business objectives.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of scientists, engineers, and research personnel.
- Oversee the full R&D project lifecycle from conceptualization to commercialization.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and timelines effectively to achieve strategic goals.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, market trends, and competitive insights to inform research directions.
- Foster a culture of innovation, scientific rigor, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure all research activities comply with safety standards, regulatory requirements, and ethical guidelines.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, marketing, and executive teams to integrate R&D outputs into business processes.
- Establish and nurture partnerships with academic institutions, industry experts, and external research organizations.
- Manage intellectual property portfolio and ensure robust protection of innovations.
Required Skills
- Proven leadership in R&D management (10+ years)
- Strong strategic planning and execution capabilities
- Expertise in scientific methodology, experimental design, and data analysis
- Excellent project management skills with a track record of delivering complex projects
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in budget management and resource allocation
- Deep understanding of relevant industry regulations and compliance standards
- Ability to inspire and motivate multidisciplinary teams
- Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Experience with intellectual property strategy and management
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, Process Engineering).
- Experience in the mining, industrial minerals, or advanced materials sector.
- Prior experience setting up and scaling an R&D department.
- Demonstrated experience in successful technology transfer and commercialization.
- Established network within the global R&D community and relevant academic institutions.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package
- Generous retirement savings plan contributions
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates
- A dynamic and collaborative work environment fostering innovation
- Significant autonomy to shape R&D direction and strategy
How to Apply
To seize this exciting opportunity to lead innovation at Career.zycto, please click on the application link below to submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your vision for R&D leadership and how your experience aligns with our mission. We encourage early applications.
