Job Details

Description

JOB PURPOSE

This function is responsible for driving the discovery, development, and implementation of innovative products, services, and solutions. The role involves leading R&D initiatives, identifying emerging trends and technologies, and conducting experiments that align with the organization’s strategic goals. This individual will play a pivotal role in future-proofing the organization by collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring ideas from concept to reality.

Under the supervision of the Innovation & Solutions Head , the following are among the Job Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Head of Innovation & Technology to define the R&D strategy and roadmap.
• Identify key research areas, emerging trends, and technological advancements to pursue.
• Align R&D efforts with the organization’s innovation objectives and business goals.
• Lead the ideation, research, and development of new technologies, products, and services.
• Conduct feasibility studies, market research, and proof-of-concept projects.
• Explore disruptive technologies (AI, IoT, blockchain, etc.) to develop innovative solutions.
• Work closely with internal teams (product, design, engineering) to align R&D outcomes with business needs.
• Engage external partners, startups, and universities for collaborative research efforts.
• Present findings, insights, and recommendations to senior leadership and other stakeholders.
• Develop prototypes and pilots to validate R&D concepts.
• Establish testing frameworks to evaluate the performance, scalability, and usability of new technologies.
• Collect feedback and iterate prototypes to optimize solutions for full-scale deployment.
• Manage R&D projects from inception to delivery, ensuring timelines, budgets, and objectives are met.
• Identify risks, dependencies, and opportunities within projects and propose mitigation strategies.
• Track and report on the progress of R&D initiatives, ensuring alignment with KPIs and goals.
• Facilitate knowledge transfer by documenting research processes, methodologies, and outcomes.
• Mentor and guide junior R&D staff, fostering a culture of curiosity and experimentation.
• Organize workshops, seminars, and knowledge-sharing sessions across the innovation unit.
• Any other responsibilities or tasks as maybe assigned by management.

INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CONTACT

• External: Vendors

• Internal: All internal Business Units

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Grade 12 Certificate with Credit or above mandatory in Mathematics and English and any other three subjects
• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Innovation Management, or a related field.
• Advanced certifications in relevant fields (AI, Data Science, IoT, etc.) are preferred.
• Zambia Qualifications Authority (Zaqa) Verification Certificate for Tertiary Qualifications
• 7+ years of experience with at least 5 years in research and development, with a focus on technology or product innovation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead R&D projects and bring ideas from concept to deployment.
• Experience in collaborative research with external partners, such as startups or academic institutions.
• Strong understanding of emerging technologies (AI, IoT, blockchain, machine learning, etc.).
• Hands-on experience with prototyping tools and development frameworks.
• Familiarity with agile R&D methodologies and innovation management processes.

JOB CORE COMPETENCIES

• Innovative mindset
• Problem solving skills
• Decision making skills
• Collaboration skills
• Analytical skills
• Drive for results
• Attention to detail
• Business acumen
• Adaptability
• Communication and presentation skills