About the Opportunity

This position will lead and coordinate Driscoll’s Plant Physiology and Research globally. This leadership role will work globally within Driscoll’s Research, Breeding, Nursery and Production departments to standardize and coordinate research processes and protocols. This person will also document and extend key research trials, innovations and best practices globally with the goal of increasing information exchange that provides Driscoll’s Growers with methods that improve yields, quality, sustainability, and/or profitability. This position will also be responsible for coordinating all Applied Researchers globally

About the Company

Driscoll's is the leading supplier and marketer of organic and conventional strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries in the world.
A fourth-generation, family-owned and operated company, Driscoll’s has built upon the genetic work and innovation of our founders to fulfill our mission to ‘Continually Delight Berry Consumers.’

We utilize traditional plant breeding methods to create plant varieties (genetic breeds) that produce ONLY THE FINEST BERRIES™. This plant material is then patented, cultivated in Driscoll’s nurseries and supplied to our independent farmer partners around the world to grow Driscoll’s brand berries. 



Driscoll’s company culture is rooted in our mission, values, and commitment to creating a supportive work environment that fosters open and friendly communication, encourages collaboration and team interaction, and provides clear focus and direction. 



At Driscoll’s, we’re committed to Growing Great People. This means that we help our employees learn about and support our overall business strategies. We also provide opportunities for individuals to grow along with the company. Most importantly, Driscoll’s encourages our employees to achieve their career growth and cultivate their personal well-being. For more information about our company, including our Mission and Values, please go to www.driscolls.com.

Responsibilities

• Develop and coordinate the global alertness for potentially important breakthroughs in growing techniques. Ensure these potential breakthroughs are recognized, tested, and communicated appropriately.
• Develop and standardize processes for the submission and documentation of research trials and results amongst Driscoll’s production, Nursery, Applied Research, and Agronomy teams globally
• Review key research trial results globally to identify synergies, trends, and relevant results and avoid unnecessary duplication
• Coordinate global and cross-functional teams to develop criteria and a process to prioritize and implement applied research and agronomy projects in all Driscoll’s geographies to meet department goals and in support of the Mission
• Develop criteria and protocols for research test design, standardizing where possible and individualizing where necessary
• Help interpret, analyze, and document results for Applied Researchers and Agronomist globally
• Formalize a process for reviewing research results and/or innovative practices and develop criteria to determine what next steps should be taken (i.e. further replication, BMP developed, and/or information should be extended to a larger audience)
• Support the development of Driscoll’s Annual R&D Report
• Partner with the Agricultural Extension Communications Specialist on strategizing about Driscoll’s web-based Global Information Network to better serve the grower community and Driscoll’s management
• Help develop analysis procedures and tracking mechanisms of resource usage in research projects
• Help develop and manage collaborations with public and private research entities that support Driscoll’s research priorities and help Driscoll’s in optimizing use of resource such as water, land and labor globally
• Review scientific journals, identify meaningful external research, and extend such reports internally and externally
• Organize internal technical meetings, discussions, and project teams to improve the coordination and efficiency of our applied researchers, and agronomists.
• Coordinate global conferences and field tours to extend information to our growers globally (and regionally as needed)
• Represent company at conferences, events and participate in relevant industry membership groups
• Lead, manage and encourage the development of staff
• Travel 20-30% of work time – this position will have access to R&D’s pool vehicle when needed
• Other responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications

• PhD Degree or equivalent in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Physiology, or related field, and 5 to 10 years of work experience
• Competent with experimental designs and analysis; must be able to summarize and present data and recommend improved processes
• Must be physically able to work in both field and laboratory settings
• Spanish/English ability would be an asset
• Must maintain a clean driving record and the necessary documents for international travel
• Must be a self-starter, willing to travel domestically and internationally, and have the ability to work independently and have strong working relationships with growers, team members, employees, and management

Applications

To apply, please visit our website at www.driscolls.com and apply to Job #1831 via the Careers page. Please also submit your cover letter and resume in Word or PDF format to casssandra.carvajal@driscolls.com.  

Thank you for your interest in Driscoll's.