Job Title: Group Head of R&D
Reporting To: Operations Director UK

Role Overview
The Group Head of R&D is responsible for defining and executing the organisation’s research and development strategy. This position combines strategic vision, technology-driven innovation, and leadership acumen to advance the company’s growth through the creation of innovative products, services, and technologies.
A key focus of the role is to establish and lead strategic partnerships with universities, research institutions, and commercial partners, positioning the company at the forefront of pioneering new technologies within the sector.
The Head of R&D will lead cross-functional teams, manage budgets, oversee a diverse portfolio of R&D projects of varying scale and complexity, and foster a culture of experimentation, collaboration and continuous learning.

Key Objectives
• Leading R&D Initiatives: Drive cutting-edge research programmes and technology development projects that enhance the organisation’s product portfolio and market position.
• R&D Project Portfolio Management: Ensure effective management of a diverse portfolio of R&D projects, balancing short- and long-term initiatives across varying scales and complexities, with clear prioritisation, governance and delivery discipline.
• Driving Innovation and Collaboration: Build and maintain strong partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry leaders to co-develop and pioneer new technologies. Leverage these relationships to accelerate innovation and access funding opportunities.
• Structured R&D Processes: Implement systematic R&D processes to ensure alignment with business objectives, enhance knowledge transfer, and optimise project outcomes.
• Pipeline Development: Maintain a steady stream of high-value research projects and technological innovations, including those developed through external collaborations.
• Strategic Foresight: Identify emerging technologies and trends, ensuring the organisation remains at the forefront of its industry through both internal capability and external partnerships.

Key Responsibilities
• Define and execute R&D strategies aligned with business goals.
• Oversee research initiatives for new product development, process innovation, and technology scouting.
• Ensure successful transition from research prototypes to commercial-ready solutions.
• Develop and manage long-term relationships with universities, research institutions, and technology companies to co-create and pioneer new technologies.
• Establish collaborative research programmes, joint ventures, and innovation partnerships.
• Identify and secure external funding opportunities, including grants and co-funded research initiatives.
• Act as the primary interface between the business and external innovation ecosystems.
• Encourage collaboration across internal business units and external partners.
• Create an open innovation environment that integrates academic research and commercial application.
• Promote knowledge exchange between internal teams and external collaborators.
• Cultivate a portfolio of high-potential research projects across varying scales, timelines and levels of complexity.
• Prioritise initiatives based on strategic relevance, technical feasibility, and business potential.
• Implement robust project management frameworks and governance to ensure effective planning, resource allocation, risk management and delivery.
• Track project performance, milestones, and key innovation metrics.
• Evaluate project outcomes and advise on scaling, technology transfer, or discontinuation.
• Promote knowledge sharing across teams and organisational units.
• Implement KPIs and reporting mechanisms to assess R&D effectiveness.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align R&D priorities with organisational strategy.
• Act as a thought leader in emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Build and mentor teams to foster creativity, problem-solving, and innovation culture.
• Negotiate and manage exclusivity agreements with external partners to secure competitive advantage over defined time periods.

Essential Skills & Experience
• Experience within the food/agricultural sector.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD preferred) in Engineering, Science, Technology, or a related field.
• In-depth experience leading R&D or technology development teams in relevant industries.
• Proven track record of delivering innovative products, services, or technologies to market.
• Strong understanding of emerging technologies, scientific trends, and industry dynamics.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, resource management, and cross-functional leadership.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and mentoring skills.
• Ability to balance research excellence with commercial feasibility and business impact.