Head of Breeding and R&D
Bakker Brothers is an international vegetable seed breeding, production and distribution company headquartered in the Netherlands. As part of the Zaad Group, we work alongside leading vegetable seed businesses including Hygrotech, East Africa Seeds and ZARP to develop high-performing vegetable varieties for growers across Africa, the Middle East and beyond.
To support our ambitious growth plans and strengthen our innovation capabilities, we are looking for an experienced and visionary:
Head of Breeding & R&D
The opportunity
As Head of Breeding & R&D, you will lead the strategic direction, performance and continuous evolution of our global breeding organization, based at our head office in Noord-Scharwoude.
You will be responsible for building an innovative, future-focused breeding and R&D organization that delivers commercially successful varieties, accelerates genetic gain and strengthens the long-term competitiveness of our vegetable seed portfolio. Working closely with breeders, commercial teams and fellow R&D leaders across the Zaad Group, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our genetics.
Reporting directly to the CEO, you will lead an international team and oversee breeding and R&D activities across multiple countries and locations.
What you will do
As Head of Breeding & R&D, you will lead the strategic direction and performance of our global breeding organization, driving the delivery of innovative and commercially successful varieties while building a high-performing international R&D team.
Your key responsibilities include:
- Defining and executing the breeding strategy across our crop portfolio.
- Leading and developing international breeding and R&D teams.
- Driving innovation through the implementation of modern breeding technologies and data-driven decision-making.
- Managing breeding budgets, resources and long-term R&D investments.
- Strengthening collaboration and synergies across the Zaad Group Vegetable Cluster.
- Ensuring a strong pipeline of high-quality genetics that supports the long-term growth of the business.
- Maintaining high standards in quality, compliance, stewardship and operational excellence.
Who you are
You are a strategic and people-focused leader who combines deep breeding expertise with the ability to drive innovation, make pragmatic decisions and develop high-performing international teams. With a strong track record in cross-cultural collaboration, you effectively connect people, knowledge and ideas across countries, disciplines and organizations.
You bring:
- A minimum of a Master’s degree (MSc); PhD or additional business qualification is preferred.
- At least 8 years of experience in breeding, R&D or related technologies.
- A minimum of 5 years of leadership experience within a breeding, research or innovation-driven organisation.
- Strong knowledge of modern breeding technologies and a passion for innovation.
- Proven experience managing international and multicultural teams.
- Demonstrated experience in R&D management, people leadership, budgeting and project management.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Excellent command of English language, additional languages are an advantage.
- Willingness to travel internationally (15%).
Our offer
- A strategic leadership position with a direct impact on the future of our breeding and
R&D organation - An open and international work environment within a passionate and dedicated team.
- The opportunity to work with collegues across the Zaad Group and contribute to a growing global seed business
- Attractive employment conditions.
- Opportunities for personal and professional development
Interested in learning more or ready to apply? Please send your CV and motivation letter to HRM@bakkerbrothers.nl.