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- Tasks: Lead applied research strategy and develop innovative plant programs across Europe, the UK, and Africa.
- Company: Join Driscoll’s, the global leader in fresh berries with a passion for innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, travel opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of plant science.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on agriculture while leading a dynamic team in a vibrant industry.
- Qualifications: 5-10 years of experience in plant science and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: UK - Maidstone (Flexible within DEMEA: Maidstone, Boavista, Huelva, Moulay, Agadir) – approx. 30% travel.
About the Opportunity
At Driscoll’s, we are looking for a visionary and people‑centered DEMEA Applied Research Manager to lead our applied research strategy across Europe, the UK, the Middle East and Africa. This role requires approximately 30% domestic and international travel to support research programs and stakeholder collaboration across the region.
As DEMEA Applied Research Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership to Applied Research programs across multiple crops and geographies. You will ensure research priorities are tightly aligned with business objectives developed by Product, Supply and District Leadership. You will lead the development and execution of trial strategies for new selections and plant types, accelerating the deployment of new genetics and optimizing growing systems in diverse production environments. Leveraging the Global Applied Research Network, you will drive innovation and translate scientific insights into practical, grower‑focused solutions. This is a senior leadership role requiring the ability to balance scientific rigor with business impact, manage multiple complex initiatives, and align diverse stakeholders around clear priorities.
Responsibilities
- Provide leadership and vision in developing relevant plant research programs aligned with DEMEA business strategies.
- Design and oversee trialing strategies to evaluate new genetics and plant types across environments and crops.
- Lead and develop the DEMEA Applied Research teams, fostering innovation, agility and a strong culture of curiosity and accountability.
- Communicate research progress, insights and opportunities through clear reporting and structured knowledge‑sharing forums to ensure effective deployment and adoption.
- Partner closely with breeding, nursery, product, supply and district teams to translate genetic potential into commercial performance.
- Leverage global research networks to accelerate innovation in plant types and growing systems.
- Develop training programs that strengthen scientific robustness and business acumen within the team.
- Manage the Applied Research EMEA budget to maximize scientific rigor, operational efficiency and business impact.
- Oversee the full employee lifecycle as a people manager, including hiring, development, engagement and safety.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a senior research leader who combines deep plant science expertise with strong business acumen and people leadership skills. The ideal candidate is strategic yet hands‑on, scientifically rigorous yet pragmatic, and capable of building alignment across diverse stakeholders while developing high‑performing teams.
Education: Spanish strongly preferred. Valid passport and ability to travel internationally without restrictions.
Why Join Driscoll’s?
Driscoll’s is the global market leader in fresh berries, driven by innovation in genetics, plant science and grower partnerships. In this role, you will shape the future of applied plant research across DEMEA, directly influencing the performance of new cultivars and the success of our growers. If you are energized by the intersection of science, strategy and leadership and passionate about unlocking the potential of plants, we would love to hear from you.
Applied Research Manager DEMEA in Kent employer: Driscoll's
Contact Detail:
Driscoll's Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Applied Research Manager DEMEA in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your answers. Focus on articulating your experience and how it relates to the role of Applied Research Manager at Driscoll’s.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the position and keeps you on their radar.
We think you need these skills to ace Applied Research Manager DEMEA in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Applied Research Manager role. Highlight your experience in plant science and leadership, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects that align with our vision at Driscoll’s.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about applied research and how your skills can help shape the future of our berry innovations. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior role, we want to see your people management skills. Share examples of how you've led teams, fostered innovation, and aligned diverse stakeholders in your previous roles. We love a good story!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Driscoll's
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into Driscoll’s applied research initiatives and understand their strategic goals. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in plant science and how they align with business objectives. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their vision.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed complex projects in the past. Highlight your ability to foster innovation and accountability within your team, as this role requires strong people leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you can develop high-performing teams at Driscoll’s.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Since the role involves communicating research progress and insights, being able to convey complex information in an understandable way is crucial. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your communication skills.
✨Align with Business Impact
Think about how your scientific knowledge can translate into commercial performance. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where your research has led to tangible business outcomes. This will demonstrate your understanding of the balance between scientific rigor and business impact, which is key for this position.