Research & Development Manager (Agricultural)

Hlabahlosile Trading Projects; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural firm in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Research & Development Manager to lead the development of innovative fertilizer products. The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in Biotechnology or Agronomy and at least 10 years of experience in the agriculture sector, with proven team leadership abilities. Fluency in Afrikaans and strong analytical skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• 10 years of experience in the agriculture sector.
• 5 years of proven team leadership experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new fertilizer products.
• Conduct feasibility studies for projects and products.
• Manage Research & Development budgets and track timelines.

Skills

Afrikaans fluently

Analytical skills

Planning skills

Time management skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's Degree in Biotechnology or Agronomy

Tools

MS Office

MS Project

Job description

Overview

AFRIKAANS FLUENTLY, FRENCH WILL BE ADVANTAGE

Research & Development Manager Agricultural

Fertilizer Products

Springs, East Rand, Ekurhuleni

Responsibilities

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

Qualifications

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