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Head of Research & Innovation
Index. Scientific & Technical Recruitment and Consulting.WorkFromHome, Auckland, New Zealand3 hours ago
Job descriptionStrategic Leadership & Planning : Develop and implement the company’s scientific strategy in alignment with commercial and regulatory goals; collaborate with the CEO on annual and long-range planning; lead strategic initiatives to support future product development. Research Oversight & Delivery : Direct and manage activities of the Research & Innovation organisation, including product and animal research, laboratory operations, and field trials; ensure evidence-based validation of product performance, safety, and animal welfare; oversee stage-gate product development processes and milestone tracking. Team & Stakeholder Management : Recruit, lead, and develop high-performing R&I teams; foster a culture of courage, collaboration, excellence, and impact; manage key external relationships including research, development, manufacturing, and field trial collaborators. Governance, Compliance & IP : Ensure compliance with health & safety and regulatory standards; collaborate with IP specialists and patent attorneys to document and protect discoveries; partner with the Chair of the Board Risk & Oversight Committee on governance and risk management. Budgeting & Reporting : Develop, align, and manage R&I budgets; present plans, progress updates, and analyses to the CEO, Board, and oversight committees; identify risks and develop mitigation and contingency plans. An accomplished animal scientist with a postgraduate qualification (MSc, PhD, or equivalent) in animal science, veterinary science, or a closely related field. Significant leadership experience in animal research, animal health, or biotech / pharmaceuticals, with the ability to design and oversee rigorous studies. Proven track record of taking research from design through to commercial outcomes, regulatory approvals, or products in market. A commercially savvy manager with relevant scientific knowledge and experience leading R&I, biotech, or pharmaceutical teams. Skilled in uplifting team capability and performance across multiple functions (e.g., animal research, laboratory operations, field trials). Able to recruit, mentor, and develop teams while ensuring delivery of high-quality, evidence-based outcomes. Experience managing cross-functional teams and external partnerships. Strong understanding of regulated environments (e.g., CMC, GMP, compliance frameworks). The optimism, energy, and adaptability to thrive in a start-up environment. Experience with controlled drug delivery systems or similar technologies. Experience in biotech, animal health, or pharmaceutical industries, ideally within high growth or start-up settings. Familiarity with best practice in-vitro and in-vivo research methodologies. Understanding of IP strategy and patent development. Join a highly innovative company with exciting technology, a strong IP portfolio, a clear path to commercialisation, and potential to solve a global challenge. Flexibility in working hours and location, with a base in Auckland and global collaboration opportunities. Competitive remuneration package with potential for equity participation. Seniority level : Executive Employment type : Full-time Job function : Research, Analyst, and Information Technology Industries : Staffing and Recruiting
Direct message the job poster from Index. Scientific & Technical Recruitment and Consulting.
About the company
Our client is a well-established innovative New Zealand agri-tech company that has developed a slow-release bolus device delivering targeted doses of a methane inhibitor to livestock. The technology leads to a reduction in methane emissions from ruminants and is adaptable across farming systems globally, with potential to impact climate change.
About the role
With strong competitive positioning and a clear pathway to commercialisation by early 2026, our client is seeking a Head of Research & Innovation to lead the company’s global R&I strategy and oversee all research, product development, and innovation activities. The role emphasises animal science and animal health. We are open to two candidate profiles :
- An accomplished animal scientist with a track record of leading research and translating it into commercial outcomes, or
- A commercially savvy manager with relevant scientific knowledge who can build and lead internal animal research capability while uplifting the efficiency and performance of the wider R&I organisation.
Reporting directly to the CEO, the Head of Research & Innovation will lead cross-functional teams spanning product and animal research, laboratory operations, and field trials, while cultivating a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
About you
We are looking for a leader who can lift the scientific capability and performance of the organisation. This could be :
Option 1 – Animal Scientist Pathway
Option 2 – Managerial / Leadership Pathway
For both pathways, you will also bring :
How to apply
Click apply or contact us at or at for a confidential discussion.
This full-time, permanent role offers flexibility to work remotely from anywhere in New Zealand or Australia’s east coast, with regular travel to Auckland.
Index Scientific and Technical Recruitment is New Zealand’s only recruitment company run by scientists. We specialise in serving science, technology, and manufacturing companies. Our commitment lies in enhancing the operation of New Zealand’s innovation ecosystem and helping technology and manufacturing companies succeed both locally and internationally.
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