Associate Director - Research and Development

Red Sea Global

Umluj

On-site

SAR 450,000 - 750,000

Full time

8 days ago

Application generator

Get a reply from this employer — a resume and cover letter tailored to exactly what they’re hiring for.

Get past ATS filters

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

Redefining Sustainability | Innovating for the Future | Creating a Lasting Impact

Botanica is a subsidiary of Red Sea Global and is part of the Red Sea Global Group of companies. We specialize in providing dedicated sustainable greenery across Red Sea Global’s destinations, ensuring careful integration of new species with local flora.

As a subsidiary, Botanica benefits from shared strategic goals and collaborative initiatives within the Red Sea Global group of companies, enhancing our ability to serve our clients effectively.

Spanning over 1 million square meters, driving our planet-first approach to sustainability. Since 2020, we have cultivated over 5 million plants, with an ambitious goal of 30 million by 2030, shaping the natural landscapes of The Red Sea & Amaala. With a team of passionate professionals—40% from the local community—and an unwavering commitment to ecological harmony, we are pioneering new global benchmarks in sustainable development.

Why Join Us?

Sustainability at Scale: Be part of a project that’s transforming landscapes and preserving biodiversity.
Innovate & Grow: Work with industry experts in a fast-evolving environment.
Global Recognition: Join a company shaping the future of sustainable tourism and development.
Work in a Natural Paradise: Contribute to world-class projects in breathtaking locations.

About the Role

The Plant Nursery R&D Associate Director will lead the research and innovation strategy and Biosecurity compliance of RSG Nursery, focusing on plant, propagation, sustainable practices, quality and product development. This role requires a balance of scientific expertise, strategic leadership, and business acumen to ensure that research outcomes translate into scalable nursery operations and profitable products.

Job 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 (production, operations, sales, marketing) to ensure research outcomes meet operational and market needs.
Support plant propagation programs to develop new, marketable, and resilient cultivars.
Advance propagation techniques (tissue culture, grafting, cuttings, seed, hydroponics, etc.) for efficiency and quality.
Conduct research on soil, substrates, irrigation, and nutrients to optimize plant growth.
Develop and implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM) strategies.
Explore new technologies including automation, AI, and digital monitoring tools for RSG Nursery applications.
Translate R&D outcomes into scalable nursery practices that improve productivity and plant quality.
Establish and monitor quality standards for plant health, growth, and survival rates.
Champion sustainable and climate-resilient practices across nursery operations.
Build and lead a high-performing team of horticulturists, researchers, and technical staff.
Manage R&D budgets, grants, and funding opportunities.
Drive external partnerships with MEWA, universities, research institutions, and industry organizations.
Ensure adherence to regulatory, phytosanitary, and environmental standards.
Lead eco-certification initiatives and promote sustainable practices.
Stay updated on government policies (MEWA), biodiversity conservation practices, and global horticultural trends.
Collaborate with Business development and Operation teams to launch and position new plant varieties.
Provide technical expertise to clients, distributors, and key stakeholders.
Represent the nursery at industry conferences, publications, and patent filings to strengthen brand reputation.