About Company
Are you ready to shape the future of innovation? Career.zycto isn’t just a company; we’re a launchpad for groundbreaking ideas, committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We foster a dynamic, collaborative environment where visionary leaders like our next Director of R&D can thrive. Our investment in cutting-edge research and development is unparalleled, providing the resources and freedom for you to lead transformative projects from conception to market. Join a team passionate about impact, driven by curiosity, and dedicated to making a tangible difference in Beitbridge and beyond. Your expertise will be instrumental in defining our strategic technological direction and product evolution.
Advertisement
Job Description
We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Director of Research & Development to lead our innovation efforts in Beitbridge. As the Director of R&D, you will be the driving force behind our technological advancements, product development, and scientific breakthroughs. This pivotal role requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record of bringing innovative ideas from concept to commercialization. You will be responsible for defining our R&D roadmap, managing a team of talented scientists and engineers, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and scientific excellence. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of relevant industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in research and development management. You will champion cross-functional collaboration, working closely with product management, manufacturing, and commercial teams to ensure that our R&D initiatives align with business objectives and market needs. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on our company’s future, contributing directly to our growth and competitive advantage in the market. Your leadership will inspire our teams, drive innovation, and establish Career.zycto as a leader in our sector. If you are passionate about pioneering new solutions and thrive in a challenging, fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply and help us build tomorrow’s solutions today.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the company's comprehensive R&D strategy, ensuring alignment with overall business goals, market demands, and long-term vision.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of R&D professionals, cultivating a collaborative, innovative, and results-driven work environment.
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from initial ideation, feasibility studies, prototyping, rigorous testing, to successful final launch.
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies, materials, and methodologies to enhance product performance, optimize processes, and reduce operational costs.
- Manage the R&D budget, allocate resources effectively, and track project timelines to ensure efficient and timely delivery of all initiatives.
- Establish and maintain robust intellectual property strategies, including patent filings, trade secret protection, and freedom-to-operate analyses.
- Collaborate extensively with internal stakeholders including Product Management, Sales, Marketing, and Operations to translate complex market needs into clear technical specifications and viable product solutions.
- Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant industry standards, local and international regulations, and stringent quality management systems.
- Represent the company effectively in industry forums, professional conferences, and foster strong relationships with external partners and academic institutions.
- Implement robust scientific practices, rigorous experimental design protocols, and data analysis methods to ensure data integrity, reliability, and reproducibility of results.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Engineering, Material Science, Applied Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related technical field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in research and development, with at least 5 years demonstrated in a leadership or managerial capacity.
- Proven track record of successful product development, innovation, and bringing new technologies from concept to commercialization.
- Strong understanding of project management methodologies and tools (e.g., Agile, Scrum) in an R&D context.
- Expertise in intellectual property management, patent strategy, and technology licensing.
- Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Demonstrated ability to inspire innovation, manage complex technical projects, and drive a culture of scientific excellence.
- Strong strategic planning and execution capabilities, with a results-oriented mindset.
- Solid financial acumen and extensive experience managing significant R&D budgets and resource allocation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working within a multinational or diverse cultural environment, particularly in emerging markets.
- Familiarity with the specific industrial and regulatory landscape relevant to the Beitbridge/Zimbabwe region.
- Certification in Project Management (PMP), Lean Six Sigma, or equivalent process improvement methodologies.
- Prior experience with grant writing, securing R&D funding, or managing collaborative research programs.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage for you and your family.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and observance of public holidays.
- Extensive professional development and continuing education opportunities to foster career growth.
- Relocation assistance provided for eligible candidates moving to Beitbridge.
- Modern office facilities equipped with state-of-the-art research and development equipment.
- A dynamic, collaborative, and supportive work environment that actively fosters innovation and creativity.
- Opportunities for international travel and collaboration with global partners and research institutions.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter detailing their relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and vision for R&D. Please click on the application link below to apply for the job.
Advertisement
