Kerchanshe Group is the largest producer and exporter of coffee in Ethiopia, and engage in manufacturing, agro-processing and export business. It has a proud history of providing quality coffees to the local and international markets. Currently Kerchanshe Group needs a dedicated and motivated candidate.

Job Purpose

• To establish and lead our new R&D Division. This role offers a unique opportunity to drive innovation and excellence across diverse sectors, including coffee export, agriculture, manufacturing, assembly and dealership, construction, transport, and hospitality.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership:

  • Design and implement R&D strategies aligned with the company’s mission to foster innovation and growth.

  • Establish a robust R&D framework, policies, and standards across all business sectors.

• Research and Innovation:

  • Identify and conduct innovative research to improve systems, processes, material utilization, energy efficiency, and overall operational effectiveness.

  • Drive sustainable practices to minimize waste, enhance efficiency, and maximize profitability.

  • Formalize research methods for situational assessments and develop actionable insights.

• Collaboration and Networking:

  • Build partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations, government agencies, and industry leaders to enhance research initiatives.

  • Foster interdisciplinary collaboration across sectors.

• Team Development:

  • Recruit, mentor, and lead a high-performing R&D team.

  • Provide ongoing training and development opportunities to ensure the team remains at the forefront of innovation.

• Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Lead stakeholder consultations to ensure alignment with business objectives and sector needs.

  • Present research findings and actionable recommendations to executives and stakeholders.

• Performance Management:

  • Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation systems for R&D activities.

  • Prepare and present periodic progress reports (monthly, quarterly, and annual).

• Resource Management:

  • Effectively manage budgets and resources to maximize research impact.

Job Requirements

Qualification and Skills

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Agricultural Science, Plant Science, Soil Science, Industrial Engineering, Statistics/Data Science, Economics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields with significant research components.

  Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in R&D roles, with at least 5 years in leadership positions.

• Proven expertise in conducting and leading practical and theoretical research across sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, transport, and construction.

• Experience in market trend analysis, regulatory environment assessment, and developing sector-specific road maps

  Skills:

• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills

• Strong leadership and team management abilities

• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities

• Familiarity with advanced data analysis tools and methodologies

  Preferred Attributes:

• Experience working in a multinational or multi-sector environment.

• Proven ability to navigate complex regulatory and operational landscapes.

• Strong publication record or proven industry contributions.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about research, innovation, and leadership, we encourage you to apply by sending your CV to hr@kerchanshe.com with the subject “Research and Development Director” within seven working days from  Jan 14,2025 up to Jan 20,2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.   

Job Requirements Ph.D. or Master’s Degree in Agricultural Science, Plant Science, Soil Science, Industrial Engineering, Statistics/Data Science, Economics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or in a related field of study with relevant work experience, out of which 5 years in leadership positions. Duties and Responsibilities: - Design and implement R&D strategies aligned with the company’s mission to foster innovation and growth - Identify and conduct innovative research to improve systems, processes, material utilization, energy efficiency, and overall operational effectiveness How to Apply Submit your application letter via email: hr@kerchanshe.com with the subject “Research and Development Director”