Function

The Maize Breeding Support department is a key pillar of maize research. Its mission is to provide seeds, technical services, and operational expertise to breeding programs. The department is structured around four main areas of activity:

• Production of research hybrid seeds and evaluation of parental line performance

• Development of doubled haploid lines

• Research support operations at the CRC: processing of research maize seeds, storage and multiplication of maize lines, international seed shipments, and regulatory and quality management

• Off-season activities: production of inbred lines and research hybrids outside Europe and in counter-season locations

Main Goal

Job description

As the Leader of the Breeding Support teams based at the Chappes Research Center, you supervise specialist teams and ensure the effective coordination of activities related to the storage and distribution of maize research seeds, the multiplication and characterization of research lines, the global shipment of research seeds, as well as regulatory and quality compliance.

1. You are responsible for the efficient management of all operations and logistical processes across the platform, serving the needs of all internal stakeholders.
2. You ensure the consistent deployment of processes and tools, in alignment with agreed models and ways of working established with your internal partners. You promote and apply a Lean Management approach and lead the associated change management initiatives.
3. As a member of the Breeding Support leadership team, you analyze and propose improvements to the management of seed and information flows, contributing to the department's strategic vision.
4. You are responsible for developing and managing the budget for the activities under your supervision.
5. You lead, manage, and develop your teams by fostering a climate of trust and uniting your colleagues around shared goals. You directly manage 7 managers, leading a team of approximately 15 people in total.
6. You act as the primary point of contact with the Site Manager for maize-related topics concerning workspace and technical room arrangements (e.g., cold rooms, fumigation areas, dryers, etc.).

What we expect of you

You hold a Master’s degree in Biology or Biotechnology, with at least 5 years of professional experience.
You demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in French and English.
You have a proven track record in managing managers.
You possess solid knowledge of the seed industry, as well as a broader understanding of the research sector.

Skills

Your benefits and working environment

In addition to holding a key position within our organization, you will be supported in developing your skills through training programs and a proactive human resources policy.

You will also benefit from an attractive package, including:

• Executive status with a fixed annual working days schedule (214 days per year)

• Personalized support: onboarding and training programs, mobility assistance

• Competitive compensation based on your profile and experience, including a performance-based bonus

• Profit-sharing scheme

• Unique Retirement Savings Plan (PERU)

• Teleworking policy (up to 2 days per week)

• On-site cafeteria with employer contribution

• Work-life balance benefits: access to a company daycare, multisport offers, carpooling network

• Works council (CSE) offering various social and cultural activities

Recruitment process

An initial review of applications will be conducted by Tiffany, our Talent Acquisition Manager.

A first interview — either on-site or remote — will take place with the hiring manager and Tiffany.

Shortlisted candidates will then meet with our HR Business Partner, and a site visit may be arranged.

Finally, all candidates actively engaged in the recruitment process will receive feedback.