Function
Maize inbreds breeding project leader
Main Goal
Based in Rohy, Ukraine, you will lead the local maize breeding project and manage the breeding team. Beyond delivering breeding results, a central part of your mission will be to strengthen the local managerial structure, develop the team and build a resilient organization with clear responsibilities, effective delegation and succession plans. You will work closely with the Head of Breeding Program and the station manager to align local execution with European breeding priorities and ensure continuity of operations in a demanding and evolving environment.
Short Description
Strategy / business orientation:
In conjunction with the Head of Breeding program:
- Define and implement breeding direction, germplasm strategy and priorities to deliver competitive lines and hybrids for the target markets.
- Translate program strategy into clear short-, medium- and long-term objectives for the Rohy breeding project
- Build a strong understanding of Ukrainian and target-market needs through close interaction with internal business teams
- Ensure freedom to operate (FTO)
Operations:
- Lead the Rohy breeding project from strategy to execution.
- Connect the Rohy project with internal and external R&D capabilities and deploy relevant breeding, phenotyping, molecular and data innovations.
- Ensure rigorous data analysis and timely breeding decisions
People Management & Organizational Development:
- Provide a strong local management presence in Rohy, working closely alongside the Station Manager
- Create effective management routines and cross-training
- Ensure compliance with company health, safety, environment
Build strong interfaces with maize breeders and research teams in other programs and countries so that Rohy is fully connected to the wider Limagrain Field Seeds Research organization.
What we expect of you
- MSc or PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy or a closely related field. Equivalent experience will be considered.
- Significant experience in maize breeding or a closely related breeding environment, with a proven track record of delivering breeding projects.
- Proven people-management experience is essential, including team development, delegation, performance management and organizational change.
- Sound knowledge of modern maize breeding, quantitative genetics, phenotyping and molecular breeding tools, combined with confidence in data-driven decision-making.
- Knowledge of Ukrainian and/or Eastern European maize production environments, germplasm and key biotic and abiotic stresses would be a strong advantage.
- Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgement and the ability to lead with calm, clarity and pragmatism in a complex and evolving environment.