Laboratory Lead

Enhance phytosanitary requirements in production of Hybrid tomato seeds in line with the GSPP protocols by ensuring high quality, reliable, and timely supply is delivered to the customer through analysing, interpreting and recording data.

Syngenta Group is one of the world’s leading sustainable agriculture innovation companies, with roots going back more than 250 years. Our 53,000 people across 100+ countries strive every day to transform agriculture through tailor-made solutions for the benefit of farmers, society and our planet – making us the world’s most local agricultural technology and innovation partner.

Syngenta Group is committed to operating at the highest standards of ethics and integrity. This is a commitment that we are making to investors, customers, society and employees. Additionally, we are also committed to maintaining a workplace environment free from discrimination and harassment.

• Organise and perform diagnostic pathological tests, analysis of water, plant and media samples (internal and external).
• Perform routine laboratory tests on plant and seed samples to screen for seed transmittable diseases.
• Oversee scheduled maintenance of laboratories on site, ensure all equipment is calibrated accordingly.
• Ensure all relevant documents are physically and electronically filed in line with the Syngenta protocols.
• Lead and coach both the laboratory and scouting team as per Syngenta guidelines.
• Work closely with the FPM to develop and update already existing training programs.
• Conduct continuous training during townhalls to all staff ensuring they remain compliance with Syngenta Phytosanitary protocols. Lead in the onboarding phytosanitary training of all guests.
• Work closely and collaboratively to ensure healthy and productive plants.
• Continuously train semi-skilled workers in seeds department in liaison with the production leads to ensure compliance and well-equipped employees.
• Ensure proper management of laboratory consumables for cost efficiency. Monitor the efficacy of disinfectants used in the farm to help prevent diseases.
• Good understanding of crop protection, recognising, symptoms caused by biotic and abiotic.
• Act as a representative in the management meetings providing feedback and updates for informed decision making.
• Ensuring adherence to phytosanitary requirements on site to control pests and diseases.
• Responsible for maintaining GSPP standards in the laboratory ensuring the necessary records and documentation are updated and compliant.
• Enforcing Syngenta HSE policy in all business operations.
• Any other tasks as may be allocated to you from time to time.

Knowledge, experience & capabilities

• Bachelor of Science in applied Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, microbiology, or any related field.
• Post graduate degree in related course will be an added advantage.
• Proven experience in laboratory diagnostics and crop protection with a strong technical background in laboratory procedures and techniques.
• 5-7 years’ experience in a similar field
• Effective leadership and communication skills
• Effective planning and organizational skills
• Proper problem identification and solving skills.
• Keen to details and a team player