R & D Manager

Prime Meridian Direct; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services company in Johannesburg seeks a dynamic Manager to lead their Research & Development team. Responsibilities include engaging with clients, managing R&D professionals, and implementing structured experiments to enhance key performance metrics. Ideal candidates should possess strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and at least 2 years' experience in a similar role. Join a fast-paced team driven by innovation and excellence.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in a leadership or coaching role.
• Experience in client-facing roles or process improvement is preferred.
• Fluent in English with a neutral accent.

Responsibilities

• Engage directly with clients to test strategies and gather feedback.
• Lead the R&D team, providing coaching and direction.
• Design structured experiments to improve key performance metrics.
• Monitor results of live tests and iterate based on outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders for strategy alignment.

Skills

Excellent problem-solving skills

Strong leadership ability

Communication skills

Critical thinking

Education

Completed Degree or 3-year Diploma

Matric

Job description

We are looking for a dynamic and hands‑on Manager to lead our Research & Development team.

This role is based at our offices in Bryanston and reports to the Head of Portfolio Risk & Profitability.

Responsibilities

• Engage directly with clients to test strategies, gather feedback, and validate concepts
• Lead a team of R&D professionals, providing coaching, direction, and support to ensure high performance
• Design and implement structured experiments to improve key performance metrics (conversion, premium, client satisfaction, etc.)
• Monitor results of live tests and iterate based on outcomes
• Use insights from client interactions to develop scalable solutions across departments
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment on strategy and execution
• Track and report on the performance and impact of R&D initiatives
• Identify opportunities to improve processes and client journeys
• Support team development through mentorship and regular performance feedback

Ideal Candidate

• Comfortable working hands‑on with clients and systems
• Passionate about testing, learning, and continuous improvement
• Excellent problem‑solving and critical thinking skills
• Strong leadership and people management ability
• Resilient and able to navigate change and uncertainty
• Confident communicator with the ability to engage clients and influence internally
• Organised and able to manage time across operational and leadership duties
• Collaborative, with a team‑first mindset

Qualifications & Experience

• Matric
• Completed Degree or a 3‑year Diploma from a reputable tertiary institution
• Excellent communication skills, fluent in English with a neutral accent
• At least 2 years' experience in a leadership or coaching role
• Experience in client‑facing roles, testing strategies, or process improvement is preferred

Ready to Lead Innovation?

Join our fast‑paced, high‑impact team! Apply now!