About Company
Join Career.zycto and become the driving force behind our innovative agricultural technology initiatives. We are a dynamic and forward-thinking organization committed to sustainable development and impactful solutions within Murehwa and beyond. For a visionary Director of R&D, Career.zycto offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape groundbreaking projects from conception to market. We value pioneering spirit, scientific rigor, and a deep commitment to transforming the agricultural landscape through cutting-edge research. This is where your leadership in product development will directly influence local communities and contribute to national growth.
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Job Description
Are you a visionary leader with a profound passion for pioneering research and development in the agricultural technology sector? Career.zycto, a leading innovator dedicated to sustainable growth and impact in Murehwa, Mashonaland East Province, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Director of R&D to spearhead our scientific endeavors. This pivotal role is perfect for an individual who thrives on building and inspiring high-performing teams, setting ambitious research agendas, and translating complex scientific concepts into tangible, market-ready products and solutions that address real-world challenges in agriculture.
As the Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in defining and executing our long-term research strategy, aligning it with Career.zycto’s overall business objectives and market needs. You will foster a culture of innovation, scientific excellence, and continuous improvement within our R&D department. This involves overseeing multiple projects simultaneously, from conceptualization and feasibility studies to prototyping, testing, and eventual commercialization. Your leadership will ensure that our research outputs are not only scientifically sound but also economically viable and socially impactful, particularly within the Zimbabwean agricultural context.
You will be responsible for managing the R&D budget, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulatory standards and ethical guidelines. Collaboration will be key; you will work closely with other departments, including production, marketing, and sales, to ensure seamless integration of new products and technologies into our operations and market offerings. Furthermore, you will represent Career.zycto in scientific forums, industry conferences, and collaborate with external partners, universities, and government agencies to advance our research capabilities and expand our influence.
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This is an exceptional opportunity to leave a significant mark on the agricultural sector, developing solutions that enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience for farmers in Murehwa and across the nation. If you are a strategic thinker with a proven track record of successful R&D leadership, a deep understanding of agricultural science or technology, and a commitment to driving impactful innovation, we encourage you to apply and join our mission to cultivate a brighter future.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with company goals and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team of scientists, researchers, and technical staff.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from ideation, research, prototyping, testing, to commercialization.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and project timelines effectively to ensure efficient delivery.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, scientific excellence, and continuous learning within the department.
- Ensure all research activities comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and ethical guidelines.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with production, marketing, and sales teams to ensure successful product integration and launch.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, research methodologies, and emerging market trends in agricultural technology.
- Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with academic institutions, industry bodies, and government agencies.
- Present research findings, project updates, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific/technical field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in research and development, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role, preferably within agricultural technology or a related industry.
- Proven track record of successful product development, innovation, and commercialization.
- Strong strategic planning, execution, and analytical skills.
- Excellent leadership, team-building, and interpersonal communication abilities.
- Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
- Deep understanding of scientific research principles, experimental design, and data analysis.
- Knowledge of intellectual property management, patent processes, and relevant regulatory affairs.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in emerging markets or the African agricultural sector.
- Familiarity with grant writing and securing research funding.
- Published research or patents in relevant agricultural technology fields.
- Strong business acumen with an understanding of market dynamics, financial management, and commercialization strategies.
- Ability to speak local languages (e.g., Shona) is considered a significant advantage.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- The chance to lead impactful, cutting-edge projects that shape the future of agriculture.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- A collaborative, supportive, and dynamic work environment.
- Direct contribution to sustainable agricultural development and local community empowerment in Zimbabwe.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit a detailed resume and a comprehensive cover letter outlining their qualifications, extensive experience, and strategic vision for R&D leadership. Please highlight your specific achievements and contributions in previous R&D roles. Click on the application link below to apply for the job.
