Starke Ayres, a leading vegetable seed company with over 135 years’ experience in agriculture, has been breeding competitive varieties of vegetable crops since 1986. Our research team utilizes state-of-the-art breeding methodologies and technologies aimed at improving disease resistance and tolerance to abiotic stresses to enhance performance and quality.

• Parental line and hybrid development for global tomato markets according to the company Business, Marketing and R&D plan
• Improve efficiency and productivity of the breeding program by optimizing the use and integration of new technologies with conventional breeding techniques.
• Work closely with Marketing and Sales to align breeding goals with current and future market needs and those of our customers.
• Prepare, implement and monitor budgets and operational plans.
• Manage, support and direct the breeding team personnel in accordance with the company’s corporate values, vision and safety.
• Ensure availability of required quantities and quality of basic seed.
• Manage accurate and detailed record-keeping and administration pertaining to breeding program.

• MSc majoring in Plant Breeding / Genetics. (PhD in Genetics / Plant Breeding related disciplines an added advantage) 
• At least 10 years’ experience in managing field based crop breeding programmes.
• In depth working knowledge of horticulture, agronomy, genetics, pathology, statistics, physiology and molecular genetics
• You must also have experience and capabilities to lead and develop others, combined with advanced communication, interpersonal and relationship skills.

Forward your CV to the HR Department via e-mail: hr@starkeayres.co.za 
(NB: Please use the name and area of the position as a reference on the application)