About Company
Leading innovation and agricultural transformation, Career.zycto is a dynamic force dedicated to fostering groundbreaking research and development in sustainable technologies. We believe that true progress stems from a culture of curiosity, rigorous experimentation, and collaborative genius. For a visionary Director of R&D, our environment offers unparalleled autonomy to shape strategic initiatives, build high-performing teams, and drive the future of our industry. Join us in making a tangible impact, turning bold ideas into market-ready solutions that address critical challenges in Mashonaland West and beyond. We are a company where your expertise in innovation leadership will not just be valued, but celebrated and empowered.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking an exceptionally talented and visionary Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation efforts in Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe. This pivotal leadership role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record of bringing cutting-edge agricultural technologies and sustainable solutions from conception to commercialization. As the Director of R&D, you will be instrumental in defining and executing our long-term research strategy, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives and market needs.
You will be responsible for overseeing the entire R&D lifecycle, from initial ideation and feasibility studies to product development, testing, and successful market launch. This involves managing a diverse portfolio of projects, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous improvement within your team. A key aspect of this role is building, mentoring, and empowering a high-performing team of scientists, engineers, and researchers, cultivating an environment where creativity thrives and challenges are met with innovative solutions. You will champion best practices in research methodologies, data analysis, and intellectual property management, ensuring our innovations are protected and exploited effectively.
Collaboration is at the heart of our success, and you will work closely with cross-functional departments, including production, marketing, sales, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless integration of new products and processes. Staying abreast of global trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory landscapes within agricultural science is critical, informing our strategic direction and maintaining our competitive edge. If you are a transformative leader passionate about driving sustainable agricultural innovation and making a significant impact in a dynamic, growing region, we invite you to explore this unique opportunity to shape the future of agricultural technology with Career.zycto.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with company vision and market opportunities, particularly in agricultural technology.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a team of scientists, researchers, and technical staff, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and high performance.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from concept generation, feasibility studies, prototyping, testing, to successful commercialization.
- Manage the R&D budget, resources, and project timelines effectively to ensure efficient execution and delivery of key initiatives.
- Establish and maintain strong intellectual property (IP) strategies, protecting proprietary technologies and leveraging patents for competitive advantage.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with production, marketing, sales, and regulatory affairs to ensure seamless transition of new products and processes.
- Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, scientific advancements, and regulatory changes relevant to agricultural innovation.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the R&D department, enhancing processes, methodologies, and quality standards.
- Evaluate potential partnerships, licensing opportunities, and external research collaborations to augment internal capabilities.
- Present R&D progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and stakeholders.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or a related scientific/engineering discipline.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Research & Development, with at least 5 years in a leadership or directorial role.
- Demonstrated success in leading R&D teams and bringing innovative products or solutions to market.
- Strong understanding of agricultural practices, crop science, sustainable technologies, or relevant industrial processes.
- Proven ability to develop and execute strategic R&D roadmaps and manage complex project portfolios.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate diverse teams.
- Expertise in budget management, resource allocation, and project management methodologies.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, coupled with a results-oriented mindset.
- Solid understanding of intellectual property rights and patenting processes.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working within an African market, particularly with agricultural challenges specific to the region.
- Track record of securing grants or external funding for research projects.
- Publications in peer-reviewed journals or presentations at international conferences.
- Proficiency in relevant software for data analysis, simulation, or project management.
- Experience in establishing and managing external research collaborations or university partnerships.
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.
- Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
- A dynamic and supportive work environment fostering innovation.
- Direct impact on sustainable agricultural practices in Zimbabwe.
- Company-sponsored team-building activities and social events.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience relevant to this role. Please click on the link below to apply for the job.
