About Company
Leading the charge in agricultural innovation, Career.zycto is a dynamic organization committed to transforming the industry through pioneering research and development. We empower our teams to push boundaries, creating sustainable solutions that benefit communities across Zimbabwe and beyond. A Director of R&D will find an unparalleled environment here for fostering groundbreaking discoveries and shaping the future of food security. Join us in making a tangible difference.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an visionary and experienced Director of Research & Development to spearhead our innovation efforts in Mazowe, Mashonaland Central Province. This pivotal leadership role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record of bringing novel ideas from concept to commercialization, particularly within the agricultural technology sector. You will be responsible for defining and executing the R&D strategy, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation, and ensuring our research pipeline aligns with business objectives and market needs.
As the Director of R&D, you will lead a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, guiding them through complex projects and promoting cross-functional collaboration. Your expertise will be critical in identifying emerging technologies, evaluating their potential impact, and integrating them into our product development lifecycle. You will oversee all stages of research, from foundational science to prototype development and field testing, ensuring rigorous methodologies and compliance with regulatory standards.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of agricultural innovation in Zimbabwe. You will be instrumental in driving sustainable growth, enhancing productivity, and developing solutions that address critical challenges in food security and environmental stewardship. If you are passionate about leading transformative research, building high-performing teams, and making a significant impact in a rapidly evolving industry, we encourage you to apply. We are looking for a leader who can inspire, innovate, and deliver tangible results that advance our mission and contribute to the well-being of the region.
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The successful candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of R&D best practices, and the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable business strategies. You will manage budgets, resources, and intellectual property, ensuring efficient allocation and protection. Your strategic vision will not only guide our current projects but also anticipate future trends and opportunities, positioning Career.zycto at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the overall R&D strategy in alignment with company goals and market opportunities.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the entire research and development lifecycle, from ideation and concept validation to prototyping, testing, and commercialization.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and project portfolios, ensuring efficient allocation and adherence to timelines and deliverables.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, research trends, and potential partnerships to enhance our competitive edge.
- Ensure all research activities comply with relevant regulatory standards, ethical guidelines, and quality assurance protocols.
- Drive intellectual property generation, protection, and management, including patent filings and trade secret strategies.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with product development, operations, marketing, and sales teams to ensure successful translation of research into market-ready solutions.
- Present research findings, strategic plans, and project updates to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
- Foster external collaborations with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry partners.
Required Skills
- PhD or Master's degree in Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific/technical field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in R&D, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or directorial role.
- Proven track record of successfully leading complex R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
- Strong understanding of agricultural technologies, crop science, sustainable practices, or related industrial processes.
- Exceptional leadership, team-building, and people management skills.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and manage R&D budgets and resources effectively.
- Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
- Strong communication and presentation skills, capable of articulating complex technical information to diverse audiences.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with intellectual property management and patent portfolio development.
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks relevant to agricultural products or biotechnology in Zimbabwe.
- Previous experience working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
- Strong network within the agricultural research community in Southern Africa.
- Experience in data science, AI, or machine learning applications in agriculture.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities and equipment.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on food security and agricultural sustainability.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the link below. Please submit your comprehensive resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and experience relevant to this role.
