Reference: 2018-2846

Vilmorin-Mikado is a global seed company with a strong presence on 5 continents, offering a range of quality, wide and original, to all professionals in the vegetable sector. Vilmorin-Mikado specializes in the selection, production and marketing of vegetable seeds and trees for farmers around the world.

In order to respond to Vilmorin-Mikado and Limagrain Vegetable Seed (LVS) phytopathology needs in Mexico, we recently developed a platform dedicated to plant pathology testing in Culiacan (MEX). Primary focus includes direct management in the current routine testing activities, as well as interacting with Project leaders to support some LVS research projects.

The PhytoPathology Platform Manager will directly manage a research technician to organize and perform the established plant pathology tests for the three LVS Business Units (BUs) for Tomato and Pepper breeding programs. The team will extend according the needs during the first three years. The pathology lab manager might also develop and implement projects for new and emerging plant diseases. This position requires strong management skills and ability to manage a functional and investment budget.

This is a challenging position to implement existing protocols in our brand-new facility including laboratory space, growth chambers and greenhouses.

Essential duties and responsibilities includes but are not limited to the following:

• Manage established pathology tests, including scheduling, performing and result transmission to the Breeders.
• Provide diagnostic support for local breeding team and sales/marketing team in Mexico.
• Insure that protocols are following the established procedure in order to guarantee quality of results.
• Responsible for maintaining lab organization and good phytosanitary practices.
• Directly manage PhytoPathology Lab Technicians with a clear planning of activity.
• Interact with Project leaders of the LVS group to propose some testing support.
• Work closely with the different local partners: breeders, cultivation workers and Research station manager
• Work closely within the different departments of VLM-Mikado regarding phytosanitary issues.
• Work closely with other plant pathologists with the parent organization.
• Develop and implement projects for new emerging pathogens according to LVS prioritization strategies.
• Manage OPEX and CAPEX Laboratory budget.
• 20 % domestic and international travel required.

Education Requirements:

• Master/PhD in plant pathology with proven experience in statistical analysis of data.

Profile:

• 2+ years of team management or managing a pathology laboratory with staff such as technicians/student.
• Fluent in English and Spanish in both written and verbal communication.
• Previous Experience in seed/plant Products Company will be a plus.
• Previous Experience/Knowledge in Nematode and Insect plant testing will be a plus

Competencies:
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Leadership – Leadership experience, with effective interpersonal communication and management skills. An expert at leading and developing phytopathology team and managing lab and team work.

Strategic Planning and Analysis – Ability to initiate and manage multiple projects, with the end results in mind. Must have foresight and take the initiative to plan and accomplish necessary tasks in order to satisfy the main client (Breeders).

Technical Skills – Direct experience in performing phytopathology tests. Required background in laboratory testing, understanding of molecular testing methods, a strong microbiology background and statistical analysis experience. Knowledge of computer and database skills needed. Excellent ability to organize folders and files of data accumulation.

Interpersonal Skills – Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills. Ability to work across all levels of the organization in a multi-nationality company. Ability to be a mentor and resource for direct reports. Ability to effectively respond to questions from executive management, peers, staff, outside services (Sales and marketing). Ability to provide monthly and bi-annual reporting to his direct manager.

Teamwork – Team player with a positive attitude. Ability to facilitate teamwork among staff, and to manage local team. Ability to build trust with all functional areas within the organization especially with the operational station manager and local cultivation/breeding teams. Higher level of Management skills will be provided.
 
Professionalism – Highly self-motivated individual, possessing strong organizational skills. Results oriented. Deadlines focused and motivated. Possess a high amount of integrity.

Adaptability – Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events. Comfortable with challenging environment. Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work.

Working Conditions / Physical Demands:

• Must be able to work with laboratory chemicals, pesticides, and other possible irritating substances
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment when necessary and/or required.
• Must be able to stand or sit for periods of time.
• Must be able to drive and have a valid driver’s license.

Application

Please click HERE to learn more and to apply online.