Lead - R&D - Agri

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES OF POSITION :

 Looking for a senior leader in the role of R&D Lead to lead R&D activities across plant science technology-led cultivation and engineering (e.g. hydroponics, aquaponics etc.) to produce best-in-class crops at superior quality, yield and cost. Candidate should have the ability to work with field operations teams to deploy proven R&D solutions at commercial scale

JOB PROFILE:

1. The candidate will be part of a fast-paced start-up like team and will have end-to- end oversight over the planning and execution of the R&D strategy

2. Work closely with the Promoters and the Agri Business Head

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

 Planning & Strategy:

- Develop and align a comprehensive R&D strategy based on the objectives of the business, in line with best-in-class industry trends

- Create and deliver an annual R&D operational plan in line with the overall business and R&D strategy

 - Make recommendations to the Board on the matters of new land acquisition in line with proposed crop portfolios, nascent crop selection to trial innovative crops and technologies, and scaling up proven methods in line

- Deliver compelling technological solutions that drive competitiveness through higher yields

- Monitor and track progress of R&D initiatives; put in place the right tools, techniques to improve success rates

- Facilitate training of farm teams on recent developments - agronomical practices, technological advances, etc. - to ensure deployment of innovations at commercial scale

Market research and partnerships:

- Conduct regular scans of global technology best practices, evaluate potential vendors/ partners and identify those suitable for trialling in India

- Collaborate and partner with global and Indian Agri universities, research labs etc. for innovative research, in line with business plan

- Work closely with agriculture research companies, suppliers of modern agri technologies and proprietary varietals, start-ups etc. to drive ideation & creation of best in class technologies

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

1. 15+ years of work experience in Agri business in India or globally with strong preference for candidate with experience in modern farming practices like hydroponics

2. Proven track record of producing and yielding the right varietals, in line with agronomical conditions

3. Experience of working with other functional teams, especially farm operations to deploy innovations at commercial scale