Director of Plant Research

at  Westfalia Fruit

COME AND JOIN THE LEADING #AVOEXPERTS

Westfalia Fruit is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe.
With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading #avoexperts, and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.

REQUIREMENTS

• PhD in Plant Sciences or Horticulture
• Strong knowledge of Fresh Produce, Supply Chain and Plant Genetics
• Extensive experience of research within a commercial environment
• Prior experience within a leadership position, managing (directly or indirectly) a global team
• Advanced levels of computer literacy in complete MS Office suite
• Ability to prepare accurate reports and presentations and the self-confidence to communicate this work to various levels of the business
• Competent to assess situations and have the ability to make decisions
• Self-starter and ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Review and redesign research programmes in alignment with business goals
• Coordinate research efforts centrally and secure industry funding where applicable
• Present research plans to customers when necessary and develop a cohesive group-wide research style
• Implement a coordinated approach to plant research activities such as breeding and health management
• Support innovation and technology development for agriculture, setting Westfalia standards
• Provide leadership and mentorship to foster collaboration, ownership, and professional growth
• Champion continuous improvement and effective change management processes.
• Establish clear, measurable goals for the research program aligned with strategic objectives