Associate Director, Plant R&D & Sustainability Strategy

Red Sea Global; Umluj; On-site; SAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

Botanica, a subsidiary of Red Sea Global, is seeking a Plant Nursery R&D Associate Director to lead research strategy and biosecurity for the RSG Nursery. You will shape the research agenda, ensure quality standards, and drive sustainable practices across our plant operations.

Responsibilities include defining the R&D roadmap, advancing propagation techniques, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and leading external partnerships to translate research into scalable nursery products.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Horticulture, Plant Science, Botany, Agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in plant research, horticulture, or nursery management, with at least 5 years in leadership.
• Proven expertise in plant propagation, and pest/disease management.
• Strong understanding of sustainable and climate-resilient nursery practices.
• Demonstrated success in leading R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the nursery’s R&D roadmap aligned with business goals and market trends.
• Provide thought leadership on plant science, horticultural innovation, and sustainability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure research meets operational needs.
• Support plant propagation programs to develop marketable cultivars.
• Advance propagation techniques for efficiency and quality.
• Develop IPM strategies and monitor plant health and growth.
• Translate R&D outcomes into scalable nursery practices.
• Lead eco-certification initiatives and promote sustainable practices.
• Manage R&D budgets, grants, and funding opportunities.
• Build partnerships with MEWA, universities, and research institutions.

Skills

Plant science

Horticultural innovation

Leadership

Project management

Grant funding

Education

Advanced degree in horticulture

Tools

Automation tech

Digital monitoring

Hydroponics systems

Tissue culture techniques

Job description

Botanica, a subsidiary of Red Sea Global, is seeking a Plant Nursery R&D Associate Director to lead research strategy and biosecurity for the RSG Nursery. You will shape the research agenda, ensure quality standards, and drive sustainable practices across our plant operations.

Responsibilities include defining the R&D roadmap, advancing propagation techniques, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and leading external partnerships to translate research into scalable nursery products.