Research and Development Manager – Plant Nutrition

About the role

Our client in the agricultural industry, based in Springs, is looking for a Research and Development Manager to lead the creation of innovative plant nutrition products. The role combines scientific discovery, product improvement and process optimisation while coordinating cross‑functional research teams and external partners.

Key responsibilities

• Lead formulation and development of new plant nutrition products.
• Evaluate opportunities to enhance crop performance through improved nutrition.
• Conduct feasibility studies and define an R&D roadmap aligned with market trends.
• Design trial protocols, oversee laboratory, greenhouse and field experiments, analyse data and produce timely reports.
• Maintain documentation standards, develop SOPs and support product registration processes.
• Troubleshoot technical issues during production and manage routine laboratory activities.
• Foster a culture of innovation, safety and continuous learning within the R&D department.
• Mentor junior team members, allocate resources, manage budgets and track project timelines.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Plant Physiology or Traditional Agronomy.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in the agriculture industry, with at least 5 years leading teams.
• Fluent in English; Afrikaans required, French advantageous.

Required skills

• Scientific research methods and data analysis.
• Trial protocol design and execution in laboratory, greenhouse and field settings.
• Report writing and documentation (SOP development).
• Product registration support and technical troubleshooting.