Global Lettuce Breeding Leader

Rijk Zwaan; Fijnaart; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Permanent contract

38 hours per week

Rijk Zwaan Academy

Vacation days

Job summary

Rijk Zwaan is seeking a Breeding Manager for Lettuce, based in the Netherlands with responsibilities across global teams. You will lead a 60‑person team with a strong emphasis on coaching, structured planning, and intercultural collaboration.

The role includes travel to visit breeding teams worldwide and coordinate with international R&D directors. You will shape breeding programs, define objectives, and drive strategic direction while maintaining a people‑oriented culture within the Lettuce

Qualifications

• At least a completed Master, for example in Plant Sciences.
• 5+ years of managerial experience in plant breeding or breeding research.
• Strong command of the English language.
• Willingly to learn Dutch.

Responsibilities

• Manage the global portfolio of lettuce breeding programs and pre-breeding projects.
• Encourage implementation of new breeding techniques within the department.
• Regularly visit breeding teams worldwide and coordinate with R&D directors.
• Monitor developments in intellectual property related to breeding.
• Collaborate across departments such as operations and research.

Skills

People leadership

Coaching

Structured / organized

Intercultural sensitivity

Travel willingness

English proficiency

Education

Master in Plant Sciences

Job description

Rijk Zwaan is seeking a Breeding Manager for Lettuce, based in the Netherlands with responsibilities across global teams. You will lead a 60‑person team with a strong emphasis on coaching, structured planning, and intercultural collaboration.

The role includes travel to visit breeding teams worldwide and coordinate with international R&D directors. You will shape breeding programs, define objectives, and drive strategic direction while maintaining a people‑oriented culture within the Lettuce