Global Head of Research Chemistry

Syngenta Group seeks a Global Head of Research Chemistry in Stein, CH, to lead a 300+ team across Switzerland, the UK, and India. The role focuses on strategic leadership, digital transformation, and delivering chemical research for crop protection innovation.

The company is looking for a leader to provide strategic direction and people management for its Chemical Research division. This position is responsible for overseeing chemical activities aimed at discovering and optimizing new active ingredients, ensuring alignment with the broader R&D strategy. The role involves driving a digital-first transformation using data, AI, and automation while leading a diverse global team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all research chemistry activities to support the advancement of research candidates.
• Promote a strong safety culture and implement continuous improvements in health, safety, and environment practices.
• Establish high standards for functional excellence, encouraging innovation and robust methodologies.
• Convert R&D goals into actionable chemistry strategies that create long-term business value.
• Cultivate a creative environment that values curiosity, accountability, and collaboration to attract and retain talent.
• Accelerate innovation by integrating AI, predictive science, and automation into chemical research.
• Manage costs effectively, balancing resources to prioritize high-impact strategic outputs.
• Lead the Chemistry Leadership Team and collaborate with R&D partners to achieve research goals.
• Build trust and strong relationships with cross-functional partners and senior stakeholders.
• Develop strategic partnerships with academic and industrial research organizations.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry with post-doctoral experience.
• Extensive knowledge of modern chemistry, including synthesis, design, and chemical technologies across discovery and optimization stages.
• Over 10 years of experience in research leadership, preferably in agriculture or life sciences.
• Demonstrated success in leading and delivering major or complex projects.
• Experience managing large, global teams across multiple geographies and developing high-performing teams.
• Background in leading digital transformation in research and data-enabled innovation.
• Understanding of external innovation ecosystems and emerging technologies.
• Familiarity with multiple crop protection product lines and portfolios.
• Experience working in a matrix organization.
• Ability to define and execute a compelling global Research Chemistry strategy.
• Proven track record of strong results orientation and customer-centric innovation.
• Ability to lead through ambiguity, change, and complexity while balancing speed, quality, and cost.

What the company offers

• Contribute to impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.
• Make a difference in process safety within global operations and shape safety legislation and culture worldwide.
• Work in an open culture with a diverse workforce where new ideas are welcome.
• Learn from highly qualified and experienced employees to gain scientific and technical excellence.
• Access a learning culture with a wide range of training options.
• Competitive pension fund plan.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Attractive bonus system.
• Onsite doctor.
• Fitness room.
• Canteen.
• Family-friendly initiatives.
• Child and family allowance.

About the company

Syngenta Group aims to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture. The company is ranked as a top employer by Science Magazine and has been awarded the 'Friendly Work Space' label for all its Swiss sites. Innovation thrives in a culture where scientific excellence drives business value, and leadership values include accountability, curiosity, courage, and collaboration.

• Goal to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture.
• Ranked as a top employer by Science Magazine.
• Awarded the 'Friendly Work Space' label for all Swiss sites.
• Culture where innovation thrives and scientific excellence drives business value.
• Leadership values include accountability, curiosity, courage, and collaboration.

How to apply

Documents to submit:

• CV
• Diploma
• Work certificates

Application language: English