About Company
Propel innovation forward with Career.zycto, a dynamic force shaping the future of industrial solutions in Kadoma. We are an ambitious and forward-thinking organization committed to groundbreaking research and development that addresses real-world challenges. For a visionary Director of R&D, this translates into an unparalleled opportunity to lead strategic initiatives, cultivate a culture of scientific excellence, and drive the creation of transformative products. Your expertise will be pivotal in steering our technological advancements and defining our trajectory within the competitive landscape. Join us and make a tangible impact.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an exceptional and highly experienced Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation initiatives in Kadoma, Mashonaland West Province. This pivotal role requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record of managing complex R&D projects from concept to commercialization. As Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in defining our technological roadmap, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, and ensuring our products remain at the forefront of the industry. You will oversee a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, providing guidance, mentorship, and strategic direction. The successful candidate will possess deep technical expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a keen understanding of market dynamics to translate research findings into viable business opportunities. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future direction of a growing company and contribute significantly to its success and the broader industry landscape. We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, embraces challenges, and is passionate about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
In this senior leadership position, you will be responsible for setting the vision and strategy for all research and development activities, identifying emerging technologies, and assessing their potential impact on our business. You will drive innovation, foster creativity within your team, and ensure that R&D efforts are strategically aligned with the company’s long-term goals and market demands. This includes developing robust project plans, allocating resources effectively, and managing budgets to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of innovative solutions. Collaboration will be key, as you will work closely with cross-functional teams including Product Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Marketing to integrate R&D outputs into the broader product lifecycle and market strategy. Furthermore, you will be expected to establish and maintain strong relationships with academic institutions, industry partners, and key vendors to leverage external expertise and stay abreast of the latest scientific and technological advancements. Your role will also encompass maintaining intellectual property, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulatory standards, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement and scientific rigor within the R&D department. This role demands not only scientific excellence but also strong business acumen and the ability to inspire and lead a diverse team towards ambitious goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the long-term R&D strategy aligned with company objectives and market needs.
- Lead, mentor, and expand a high-performing R&D team, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and concept generation to prototyping, testing, and transfer to manufacturing.
- Manage R&D budgets, resources, and timelines efficiently to ensure project delivery within scope and schedule.
- Identify and evaluate new technologies, scientific advancements, and market trends to maintain a competitive edge.
- Establish and maintain intellectual property strategies, including patent applications and trade secret protection.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Product Management, Operations, Marketing, and Sales to ensure seamless integration of R&D efforts with business goals.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, regulations, and quality management systems.
- Present R&D progress, outcomes, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership and stakeholders.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Engineering, Science, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Research & Development, with at least 8 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute R&D strategies that drive innovation and business growth.
- Strong understanding of product development processes and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Stage-Gate).
- Expertise in intellectual property management and technology commercialization.
- Exceptional leadership, team-building, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Proven track record of managing complex projects and multidisciplinary teams.
- Financial acumen and experience managing substantial R&D budgets.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or equivalent business management qualifications.
- Experience in advanced materials, sustainable technologies, or automation.
- Prior experience working in a fast-growing startup or scaling technology company.
- Published research papers or patents in relevant fields.
- Knowledge of industry-specific regulatory requirements in Kadoma or broader Southern Africa.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Retirement savings plan with company matching.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- Dynamic and collaborative work environment focused on innovation.
- Opportunity to lead cutting-edge projects with significant impact.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and leadership philosophy. Please click on the link below to apply for this exciting opportunity.
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