director, Global lead - Research & Development (based at the Farmer Support Center, Hacienda Alsacia - Alajuela, Costa Rica)
Starbucks Corporation
Job Description
Brand
Job Category
Job Function
Job Level
Posting Date
Expiration Date
Remote/ Hybrid
Pay
Bonus Eligible
Global lead - Research & Development, director.
Farmer Support Center Costa Rica – Hacienda Alsacia – Alajuela, Costa Rica.
Now Brewing – Coffee breeding leaders! #tobeapartnerFrom the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated coffee and the rich tradition, but that also brought a feeling of connection. We are known for developing extraordinary leaders who share this passion and are guided by their service to others.
We are committed to innovation, excellence, and the promotion of ethical practices throughout our supply chain. As part of our mission to enhance the coffee industry, we are seeking a talented individual to join our team as the Global Lead Research & Development.
As the Research & Development global lead, director you will….
e responsible for leading and managing all aspects of research and development related to coffee cultivation. You will lead a team of professionals and collaborate closely with various stakeholders to develop and implement strategies aimed at enhancing coffee plant genetics for improved yield, quality, resilience, and sustainability.
Summary of key 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.
We’d love to hear from people with:
- 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: Can lead and inspire a diverse team, set the overall direction of the office, and displays our mission and values at any point in time.
- Good communicator: Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to confidently 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. Ability to build a level of trust and respect amongst peer group and recognizes the importance of solid relationships.
Join us and inspire with every cup. Apply today!
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 Coffee Company 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@starbucks.com or 1(888) 611-2258.