Function
This role is part of a transformation aimed at:
- Strengthening synergies between Research and the broader Limagrain Field Seeds (LFS) organization
- Improving the efficiency of R&D investments
- Supporting LFS's sustainable and profitable growth
Main Goal
As a member of the LFS Executive Committee (LFSEC), the Director of Research (DR) contributes to defining LFS's global strategy.
He/she leads its implementation through the research teams under his/her management, working in close coordination with the rest of the LFS organization.
The ultimate goal is to develop competitive and market-adapted field crop varieties.
This role includes continuing the evolution of the research organization within LFS (Ambition 2030 2.0), ensuring scientific excellence, operational performance, and a direct contribution to the competitiveness of LFS and its Joint Ventures (JVs).
Job description
1. Strategic Contribution as a Member of the LFS Executive Committee
- Participate in building strategic plans
- Monitor implementation and propose adjustments as needed
2. Define the Strategic Roadmap for Research in Line with LFS Priorities
- Develop LFS's scientific and technological roadmap
- Propose and implement the Intellectual Property protection and usage strategy
- Identify areas for differentiating innovation (genetics, traits, data management, technologies, etc.)
- Ensure coherence across multi-species and multi-region research programs
- Set up the necessary organization aligned with the broader LFS structure
3. Team and Resource Management
- Lead the Research Department Management Team (RDMT)
- Functionally manage research teams located in BSA (Business & Supply Areas) and JVs across countries, ensuring alignment of goals
- Develop talent, promote diversity, and foster engagement within scientific teams
4. Optimize Investments and Performance
- Oversee R&D budgets and ensure measurable return on investment
- Work with Strategic Marketing to implement harmonized performance indicators across research programs
- Contribute to cost optimization in a margin-constrained environment, in close collaboration with country teams
5. Collaboration and Influence
- Collaborate closely with BSA Directors, Corporate functions (Finance, HR, IT, Legal), and external partners
- Represent LFS in certain scientific and partnership forums
- Act as a full member of the Limagrain Group Scientific Committee
- Contribute to the Top Executive community of the Limagrain Group
What we expect of you
Technical Skills:
- Recognized expertise in plant genetics, biotechnology, or agronomy
- Proven experience in leading international research programs
- Strong knowledge of intellectual property, seed regulations, and public/private partnerships
Managerial Skills:
- Strong, collaborative leadership
- Ability to unite multicultural teams and communicate effectively
- Strategic vision and political acumen
- Capacity to drive change in a complex environment
Education:
PhD or Agricultural Engineering degree with specialization in genetics or biotechnology
Languages:
Fluency in French and English is essential
Skills
Recruitment process
Once your application has been submitted, an acknowledgement of receipt will confirm its receipt.
We will study your profile in relation to the needs of the position and the company.
If your application is selected, the following steps are part of our process:
- After a prequalification interview, you will meet your manager and group HR Director.
- Then we will ask you to participate into the assessment process.
Groupe Limagrain is an employer that respects diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds