About Company
Pioneering innovation in Bulawayo, Career.zycto connects exceptional talent with forward-thinking enterprises across Zimbabwe. We excel at identifying strategic leaders who can drive technological advancement and product excellence. For a Director of R&D, we offer unparalleled opportunities to shape future solutions and build high-performing teams. Joining us means impacting industries from manufacturing to tech, fostering a culture where groundbreaking ideas are celebrated and meticulously developed. We empower leaders to leave a lasting mark, transforming visions into market realities. Explore a career path where your scientific leadership and strategic vision are paramount to success.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an exceptional and visionary Director of Research & Development to lead groundbreaking innovation in Bulawayo. This pivotal role demands a leader with a profound understanding of product lifecycle management, technological trends, and a proven track record of bringing cutting-edge products from concept to commercialization. As Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in defining and executing our client’s research and development strategy, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, collaboration, and continuous improvement. You will oversee multiple R&D projects, manage cross-functional teams, and ensure that our intellectual property portfolio is robust and strategically aligned with long-term business objectives. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of product innovation, driving growth and market leadership through the application of advanced research and development methodologies. We are looking for an individual who is not only a brilliant scientist or engineer but also a compelling leader capable of inspiring and developing a high-performing R&D team. Your strategic insights will guide investment in new technologies, partnerships, and talent acquisition, positioning our client at the forefront of their industry. You will be expected to maintain a deep awareness of competitive landscapes, emerging technologies, and customer needs to identify new areas for innovation and product differentiation. Success in this role will be measured by your ability to consistently deliver innovative solutions that meet market demands, contribute to revenue growth, and enhance brand reputation.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with overall business goals and market trends.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a high-performing team of scientists, engineers, and technical professionals.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from ideation, feasibility studies, prototyping, testing, to commercial launch.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and timelines to ensure efficient project delivery and optimal ROI.
- Foster a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and intellectual curiosity within the R&D department.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies, materials, and processes to enhance product performance and competitiveness.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and sales teams to ensure successful product commercialization.
- Manage intellectual property portfolio, including patent applications, trade secrets, and competitive intelligence.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and quality requirements.
- Present R&D progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
Required Skills
- PhD or Master's degree in Engineering, Material Science, Chemistry, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in R&D, with at least 5 years in a leadership/management role.
- Demonstrated ability to strategically lead complex R&D projects from concept to market.
- Proven track record of developing and commercializing successful innovative products.
- Strong understanding of intellectual property management and patent landscape analysis.
- Exceptional leadership, team management, and talent development skills.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities.
- Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a relevant industry such as manufacturing, electronics, pharmaceuticals, or advanced materials.
- Strong network within the scientific and engineering communities.
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks specific to product development in Zimbabwe or Southern Africa.
- MBA or equivalent business acumen.
- Experience with open innovation and external partnership management.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- State-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
- Collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
How to Apply
To apply for this transformative Director of R&D role, please click on the application link below. Submit your detailed CV along with a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and vision for driving innovation.
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