Head of Breeding Türkiye
On-siteAntalya, Antalya, Turkey
Job Summary
Develop and execute the short- and long-term breeding strategy for assigned crops, ensuring alignment with KWS Vegetable Business Unit objectives. Lead breeding programs and operations across Türkiye and the Middle East to deliver a continuous pipeline of commercially successful varieties with competitive time-to-market. Establish, monitor, and improve breeding policies, processes, and procedures while managing budgets, CAPEX investments, and resource allocation. Oversee research stations, manage breeding teams through workforce planning and talent development, and foster a collaborative culture supporting organizational growth. Prepare breeding reviews, crop reports, and strategic recommendations to support informed decision-making by leadership.
Required Qualifications
- You already reside in or can move to Antalya, Türkiye
- MSc or PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, or a related scientific discipline
- Several years of experience in plant breeding and/or research leadership roles, ideally within the vegetable seed industry
- Proven expertise in breeding programs, breeding methodologies, and the practical application of modern breeding principles
- Strong knowledge of breeding technologies, tools, and data-driven approaches that enhance breeding efficiency and accelerate product development
- Fluent in English and Turkish, both written and spoken
- Demonstrated leadership experience with the ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams across diverse and international environments, with a collaborative and inclusive approach, fostering talent development, engagement, and team success
- Ability to ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices while fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement
- Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate scientific insights into business-relevant decisions
- Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to identify opportunities, drive change, and deliver sustainable business impact
- Excellent organizational, stakeholder management, and influencing skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and levels of the organization
- Experience working in multicultural and international environments, with a global mindset and strong intercultural communication skills
- Valid Class B driver's license with the ability and willingness to drive regularly as part of the role, including frequent travel to breeding stations, trial locations, and other business sites
- Willingness to undertake domestic and international travel as required by the role
Hiring someone like this?
Get your role in front of qualified candidates on Sorce.