Head of Trait Discovery

Taken en verantwoordelijkheden

We are seeking a strategic and globally oriented leader to deliver integrated trait solutions for product development. This role drives innovation in trait research, manages multidisciplinary teams and resources, and fosters collaboration and partnerships to deliver high-quality, compliant, and impactful trait solutions into breeding pipelines.

This is why you want to join us as Head of Trait Discovery at Enza Zaden

• You’ll lead cutting-edge trait research that directly feeds into our global breeding programs.

• You’ll work with passionate, high-performing teams in a collaborative and innovative environment.

• You’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of sustainable agriculture through strategic partnerships and impactful trait solutions.

Make a difference as Head of Trait Discovery

As Head of Trait Discovery, you will:

• Lead and develop multidisciplinary research teams and domain managers focused on trait discovery.

• Co-develop and execute strategic plans for trait domains in close collaboration with Biotech management, Molecular Breeding, and breeding teams.

• Ensure timely delivery and seamless integration of novel traits into (pre-)breeding pipelines, with appropriate IP protection.

• Drive operational excellence by implementing processes that improve quality, productivity, and compliance.

• Manage budgets and resources using data-driven decision-making.

• Foster internal collaboration and develop strategic external partnerships with universities, institutes, and companies.

You will report to the Global Director Biotech and work closely with internal stakeholders. Your workplace will be based in Enkhuizen, with global collaboration across our research network.

What you bring as a future colleague

• Deep knowledge of biological processes and trait discovery approaches.

• Proven ability to deliver integrated trait solutions and manage complex portfolios.

• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.

• Strategic planning and delegated execution across teams.

• High business acumen and budget management proficiency.

• Clear and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.

• High adaptability to business needs, with a strong focus on our “Enza Be One” philosophy.

You are an empathetic and outcome-driven leader who thrives in a dynamic, international environment. You inspire your teams, build strong partnerships, and are always looking for ways to innovate and improve.

Enza Zaden as your employer

With more than 3,000 passionate team members across the world, we're on a daily mission to develop the finest vegetable varieties. Our goal? To deliver seeds with that special something: better taste, better yields, and better resistance. On our mission to feed the world, we challenge ourselves to gain deeper insights and find the next breakthrough. We grow and innovate together, and everyone’s contribution are valued. Throughout our 85 years, our family values, passion, independence and or focus on innovation have truly set us apart. Over 480 million people are eating our vegetables every day something we are very proud of! Our passion isn't just a trademark; it's our driving force, propelling our rapid growth. If you're ready to explore your potential and thrive in a supportive environment, we welcome you to develop your talents with us. The combination of entrepreneurship, initiative and a healthy dose of determination has made Enza Zaden great and brought us where we are today. Enza Zaden is and always will be in motion: in the past, present and future.

What can you expect from us?

As a family-owned company, we support you to thrive in all areas of life, so that you can be successful inside and outside of work. We offer:

• Flexible work arrangements;

• Access to a variety of wellbeing programs and healthy food options;

• 25 paid vacation days (employees have the option to buy extra vacation days equivalent to two times their weekly working hours);

• 1 paid vitality day for all, plus extra days as your age increases;

We aspire to be a good employer that cares for our employees, both during and after their careers at Enza Zaden. Our most important benefits include:

• Active partnership in your professional development (personal growth);

• Tailor made leadership development programs and global e-learning platform;

• Employer sponsored retirement benefits.

Join us for a career that grows with you! Are you curious to know more about Enza Zaden click on this link to our website.

Get in touch

Apply now using the application button. Do you have any questions about our application process? Please feel free to reach out to:

Annemarie Weening, Senior Corporate Recruiter (a.weening@enzazaden.nl).

Good to know

• This position cannot be filled on an interim basis;

• Enza Zaden is an equal opportunity employer and don’t discriminate based on background, identity or personal characteristics.