Overview
Director, Global Lead - Research & Development - Farmer Support Center, Hacienda Alsacia, Costa Rica
Join to apply for the Director, Global Lead - Research & Development - Farmer Support Center, Hacienda Alsacia, Costa Rica role at Starbucks. Based at the Farmer Support Center Costa Rica – Hacienda Alsacia – Alajuela, Costa Rica.
Salary range : 83,200,000-104,000,000 CRC annual (pay range).
Responsibilities
- Strategic Planning : Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy aligned with the company\'s goals, focusing on plant breeding, soil health improvement and regenerative agricultural practices.
- Team Leadership : Lead a team of scientists, agronomists, and technicians, providing mentorship, guidance, and support to foster innovation and collaboration.
- Plant Breeding : Oversee the development of new coffee varieties with improved yield, resistance to pests and diseases, and quality traits through traditional breeding techniques or advanced biotechnological approaches (e.g., somatic embryogenesis).
- Soil Health Management : Implement research programs to enhance soil fertility, structure, and health through sustainable practices such as composting, cover cropping, and precision agriculture.
- Agricultural Innovation : Drive innovation in farming practices, including irrigation methods, integrated crop protection management and regenerative agriculture with a focus on maximizing productivity while minimizing environmental impact and building climate resilience.
- Collaboration : Collaborate with external partners, including academic institutions, research organizations and agricultural input suppliers, to leverage expertise and resources for R&D projects.
- Regulatory Compliance : Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards governing agricultural research, genetic engineering, and environmental sustainability.
- Budget Management : Develop and manage the R&D budget, allocating resources effectively to support research priorities and achieve strategic objectives.
- Technology Adoption : Stay abreast of emerging technologies and scientific advancements in agriculture, evaluating their potential applications to improve coffee cultivation practices.
- Reporting and Communication : Provide regular updates to senior management on R&D activities, progress, and outcomes, communicating key findings and recommendations effectively.
Qualifications
Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in plant science, agronomy, genetics, or related field.Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in agricultural research and development, with a focus on plant breeding and sustainable / regenerative agriculture.Deep knowledge of coffee cultivation, genetics, and agronomy, with a passion for sustainability.Experience in digital agriculture, robotics and other technological solutions applicable in agriculture.Proven track record of successful project management, innovation, and technology transfer in agricultural R&D.Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.Proficiency in English and Spanish.Full proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PPT, Word).Strong interpersonal skills : Ability to lead and inspire a diverse team, set the overall direction of the office, and demonstrate Starbucks\' mission and values.Good communicator : Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, and to present objectives and desired outcomes to leadership and cross-functional teams.Cross-functional collaboration and leadership : Experience leading and / or facilitating cross-functional or organizational groups, building trust and solid relationships.Equal Opportunity
Starbucks Coffee Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with all federal, state and local ordinances. Starbucks is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at applicantaccommodation or 1(888) 611-2258.
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