R&D Manager

R&D Manager plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and delivering technical excellence across Decco's South African operations. Reporting directly to the Global R&D Head, this position manages laboratory and field teams, coordinates regional product development and validation projects, and provides technical support to commercial, marketing, and regulatory functions. The role also contributes actively to prioritized global initiatives and serves as a catalyst for Decco's regional strategic growth plan.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Team Management, Coordination and Communication

2. Lead, develop, and mentor laboratory and field teams to ensure high performance and continuous learning.

3. Set clear objectives and KPIs, monitor performance, and foster a culture of accountability and innovation.
4. Develop and submit monthly reports detailing laboratory activities, project progress, and key milestones.
5. Design, validate, and implement testing protocols for laboratory, field, packhouse, and third-party (CRO) studies.
6. Maintain up-to-date records, SOPs, and ensure timely procurement and upkeep of laboratory equipment and consumables.
7. Communicate R&D results effectively and in a timely manner to internal and external stakeholders.
8. Liaise and engage with university researchers, extension agents, consultants, startup partners, and customers to drive adoption of new products.
9. Collaborate with other regional managers to share learnings and align on project implementation.
10. Maintain proactive engagement with regulatory authorities, consultants, and industry associations to ensure compliance and manage registrations, renewals, and dossiers.

2. Technical Support to Region

• Assume full accountability for resolving technical issues in the market, including product quality, equipment challenges, and customer inquiries.
• Partner closely with the sales team and customers to provide timely technical assistance, documentation, certifications, and reports.
• Lead technical meetings with customers to address product performance, testing needs, and troubleshooting.
• Participate in seminars, congresses, and industry events in coordination with the formulation team.
• Develop and guide robust testing plans and protocols, providing feedback on results and outcomes.
• Conduct regular visits to customers, field trials, and packhouse locations to gather high-quality data and insights

3. Product Development, Validation & Commercialization

• Drive product development activities from strategy through implementation, in alignment with regional and global priorities.
• Plan and coordinate commercial and semi-commercial trials, including protocol design, packaging, and collaboration with growers.
• Oversee product validation during packaging and generate comprehensive reports and recommendations.
• Identify and expand applications of current products to new crops, segments, and countries.
• Actively engage with third-party researchers and institutions for independent product validation opportunities.
• Lead and report progress of global and regional trials, ensuring alignment and transparency.
• Support fellow regional R&D Managers by sharing technical information, documentation, and trial data.
• Contribute to special projects focused on biologicals, fungicides, and low-toxicity alternatives.

COMPETENCIES:

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Strategic Planning and Analysis

• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proactive in planning, executing, and tracking deliverables.

Technical Expertise

• Strong attention to detail and high standards of quality.
• Comfortable working with laboratory chemicals and analytical tools.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

People Leadership

• Proven ability to lead and inspire teams, driving engagement and accountability.
• Skilled at mentoring and developing talent.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

• Strong oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to influence, present effectively, and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Professionalism and Adaptability

• Self-motivated, organized, and results-driven.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced and changing environment.
• Resilient in managing unexpected challenges.

Dependability

Self-directed and capable of working independently or as part of a cross-functional team.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE / SKILLS

• MSc or higher degree (PhD preferred) in Chemistry, Horticulture, Plant Physiology, Formulation, or related disciplines.
• Minimum 5 years' experience (max.12 years) in R&D roles within the postharvest or agricultural industry.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and support both short-term operational needs and long-term innovation pipelines.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management capabilities.
• Innovation mindset, eager to learn, adopt new technologies, and drive continuous improvement