SAC Production Research Agronomist

Purpose:

• The SAC Production Research Agronomist will play a pivotal role in driving the execution of Production Research Support and Technology Deployment across Bayer Seed Manufacturing in Zambia, Malawi and other Southern African countries.
• This position is responsible for ensuring operational excellence in seed production processes, fostering continuous improvement, and accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge agricultural technologies.
• By building strong relationships with internal stakeholders at both regional and global levels, the role will contribute to high-quality, cost-effective, efficient and reliable seed production systems that align with Bayer’s vision of sustainable agriculture

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and Technology Deployment: Lead and support the deployment of innovative seed production technologies and agronomic practices across the Southern African (SAC) region, ensuring seamless integration into existing operations
• Operational Excellence: Drive continuous improvement initiatives within seed production to optimize quality, cost-efficiency, and yield. Regularly assess and enhance production processes to maintain industry-leading standards
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong partnerships with key internal stakeholders (e.g., Foundation and Commercial Seed Production teams, R&D, Global SPI) to ensure alignment with organizational goals and regional needs
• Training and Knowledge Transfer: Conduct technical training programs to educate production teams and Bayer seed growers on the latest technologies and best practices, accelerating the region’s ability to achieve reliable seed production and implement new strategies
• Deployment Field Trials and Data Analysis: Oversee the execution of deployment field trials and research projects to validate innovative technologies and agronomic practices and assess their impact on seed production, ensuring that data collected informs strategic decisions
• Regulatory and Compliance Support: Ensure that all production processes comply with local and global agricultural regulations, stewardship standards, and Bayer’s sustainability goals
• Reporting and Documentation: Provide timely and comprehensive reports on project progress, findings from field trials, and technology deployment outcomes, ensuring alignment with regional standards and objectives
• HSE Responsibilities:
  • Leading HSE efforts according to ISO45001 and Bayer safety standards focusing on legal compliance and identifying safety risks applying the HIRA methodology
  • Adherence to all applicable legislation, Bayer safety policies and procedures
  • Actively promoting the Bayer safety culture and best practices
  • Participation in compiling Risk assessments and Job safety analysis
  • Actively recording safety observation and near misses
  • Participating in 5WHY problem solving identifying corrective and preventative actions

Key Working Relations:

• Foundation and Commercial Seed Production
• Production Management
• Production Quality
• Breeding (R&D)
• Portfolio Management

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or a related field
• Experience: At least 3-5 years of experience in agronomy, seed production, or agricultural research, preferably in a multinational or large-scale agricultural environment and proven history of managing research projects, implementing innovative technologies, and driving process improvements
• Qualifications: 
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Fluency in English; proficiency in local languages is a plus
  • Willingness to travel across Southern Africa as required
  • Driver’s license
• Desired:
  • In-depth knowledge of seed production processes and technologies
  • A strong passion for sustainable agricultural practices and innovation
  • ISO, Six Sigma or Lean manufacturing expertise

• Functional competence:
  • Strong critical thinking skills and ability to adapt to dynamic challenges in the field
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions
  • Excellent communication and people skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with cross-functional teams and stakeholders
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced global and multi-cultural seed company
  • Challenging the status quo to improve processes and the way things are done