Vegetable Breeding Director – Türkiye & Middle East

KWS Group; Muratpaşa; On-site; TRY 750,000 - 1,150,000; Full time

Job summary

KWS Group in Türkiye is seeking a Head of Breeding Türkiye to shape and execute the breeding strategy for vegetables across Türkiye and the Middle East, driving innovation and delivering high-performing varieties.

You will lead breeding programs, collaborate with Product Management, Sales and Operations, and travel for field work. The ideal candidate holds MSc/PhD in Plant Breeding or Genetics, has multiple years of leadership experience, and is fluent in English and Turkish. Antalya-based.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, or a related scientific discipline.
• Several years of experience in plant breeding and/or research leadership roles, ideally within the vegetable seed industry.
• Strong knowledge of breeding technologies and data-driven approaches.

Responsibilities

• Develop, define, and execute the short- and long-term breeding strategy for the assigned crop(s).
• Lead breeding programs and operations across Türkiye and the Middle East.
• Collaborate with Product Management, Sales, Finance, Operations and other functions to execute crop-specific plans.
• Oversee breeding policies, processes, and budgets to ensure efficient R&D goals.
• Lead, coach, and develop breeding teams and succession planning.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Data-driven breeding

Intercultural communication

Education

MSc/PhD in Plant Breeding or Genetics

Tools

Breeding technologies/tools

Job description

KWS Group in Türkiye is seeking a Head of Breeding Türkiye to shape and execute the breeding strategy for vegetables across Türkiye and the Middle East, driving innovation and delivering high-performing varieties.

You will lead breeding programs, collaborate with Product Management, Sales and Operations, and travel for field work. The ideal candidate holds MSc/PhD in Plant Breeding or Genetics, has multiple years of leadership experience, and is fluent in English and Turkish. Antalya-based.