Research & Development Manager (Agricultural)

Hlabahlosile Trading Projects; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural company in Springs is seeking a Research & Development Manager with extensive experience in the agriculture sector. The successful candidate will lead new product development, manage research projects, and mentor a team. A Master's degree in Biotechnology or Agronomy and 10+ years in the field are essential. Excellent communication skills are required, along with strong analytical and planning abilities.

Qualifications

• 10 years experience in the agriculture sector.
• 5 years of proven experience in team leadership.
• Good command of Afrikaans / English / French is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and formulation of new fertilizer products.
• Conduct feasibility studies for projects and products.
• Oversee laboratory, greenhouse, and field trial activities.

Skills

Analytical skills

Team leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Education

Master’s Degree in Biotechnology or Agronomy

Tools

MS Office

MS Project

Job description

Research & Development Manager Agricultural

Location: Springs, East Rand, Ekurhuleni

Key Responsibilities :

1. Lead the development and formulation of new fertilizer products to enhance crop performance.
2. Identify and evaluate new opportunities, conducting feasibility studies for projects and products.
3. Define and implement a Research & Development roadmap aligned with business objectives and market trends.
4. Apply scientific methods, design trial protocols, conduct and manage research projects, analyze trial data, and produce clear reports.
5. Maintain strong documentation standards; develop and update SOPs.
6. Oversee laboratory, greenhouse, and field trial activities, ensuring accurate execution and data integrity.
7. Support the product registration process and troubleshoot technical production issues.
8. Supervise daily laboratory operations, maintain safety, and promote continuous learning and innovation in the Research & Development team.
9. Mentor and develop junior team members and allocate resources effectively.
10. Manage Research & Development budgets and track project timelines, delivering world-class research aligned with latest agronomic and biotechnological trends.

Key Qualifications & Requirements :

1. Master’s Degree in Biotechnology (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Plant Physiology) or Agronomy.
2. At least 10 years experience in the agriculture sector.
3. Minimum 5 years proven experience in team leadership.
4. Good command of Afrikaans / English / French (advantageous).
5. Strong analytical, planning, and time management skills.
6. Advanced computer proficiency (MS Office and MS Project).
7. Excellent verbal and written communicator, skilled in stakeholder engagement and presenting.
8. Demonstrated innovation, adaptability, and strong professional ethics.
9. Solid business and financial understanding with a focus on process improvement and achieving results.