Commercial Head of Research and Development – Field Trials – Yorkshire – £80,000 DOE + Bonus

Agricultural Recruitment Specialists Ltd; Redcar; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000

Job description

Commercial Head of Research and Development
Commercial Head of Research and Development – Field Trials – Yorkshire – Basic to £80,000 + Bonus

The Commercial Head of R&D will be responsible for leading and shaping the strategic direction and quality of our research and development function. This leadership role will drive innovation in the development of sustainable, high-performance plant varieties, enhancing both agricultural productivity and amenity landscapes. The Head of R&D will collaborate closely with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external partners to define research priorities, allocate resources, and ensure the successful delivery of impactful breeding programs. Additionally, the role will require a strong focus on commercial strategy and business development to maximize the market potential of R&D innovations.

The Job:
- Lead the development and execution of a long-term R&D strategy for breeding, focusing on sustainability, yield, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability
- Mentor a multidisciplinary team of researchers, breeders, and technical staff to deliver cutting-edge breeding solutions, led by a R&D Manager
- Analyse and report on large-scale field trials, manage complex datasets, and ensure the scientific rigor of all research projects
- Drive innovation by exploring and implementing advanced breeding technologies, plant genetics, and biotechnology to achieve high-impact results
- Foster collaboration with agronomists, product development teams, and external partners to align R&D efforts with market needs, ensuring a strong link between scientific advancements and commercial viability
- Champion a commercial mindset within the R&D team, identifying new business opportunities, market trends, and pathways to accelerate the translation of R&D innovations into profitable products
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with key customers, industry stakeholders, and potential partners to expand business development opportunities
- Communicate research outcomes to stakeholders, preparing detailed reports, presentations, and strategic recommendations to inform business decisions and product development
- Champion a culture of continuous improvement, sustainability, and environmental responsibility in R&D practices

The Candidate:
- Min BSc in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related field
- Extensive experience in crop trials or breeding
- Deep understanding of advanced breeding methodologies
- Expertise in project management, data analysis, and the translation of scientific research into practical, market-driven solutions
- Commercial acumen with a strong ability to identify and capitalize on business opportunities, manage budgets, and drive profitability from R&D investments
- Proven ability to build relationships, negotiate partnerships, and expand market reach for new innovations
- A passion for sustainability and environmental considerations in breeding practices, with the ability to balance innovation and ecological responsibility
- Excellent communication skills, capable of conveying complex scientific concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

This is a unique opportunity for a visionary leader with both scientific expertise and commercial insight to make a significant impact on the future of breeding and trials, driving forward innovation, sustainability, and business growth in agriculture and amenity landscapes.

The Package:
- Basic Salary to £80,000 DOE
- Bonus
- Excellent Benefits Package