Johnny's is currently seeking dynamic candidates for Vice President of Research and Development. This position plans and directs all aspects of the organization's research and development policies, objectives, and initiatives and is responsible for bringing to market new and innovative seed varieties for our flower, herb, and vegetable product lines. Johnny's is an independent, 100% employee-owned company, founded in 1975 by Rob Johnston, its present chairman. There are approximately 180 full-time employees and our home is in beautiful Central Maine. Johnny's Selected Seeds is known for supplying superior seeds, tools, information, and service to mixed market growers and avid home gardeners. Our research is focused on finding or breeding outstanding varieties of vegetables, cut flowers, and herbs, and on thoughtfully designed tools and equipment.

This position reports to our Albion, Maine facility.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Guide and manage day-to-day operations in Research and Development.
• Ensure delivery of superior products, information, and service to our customers.
• Partner with the senior management group in establishing direction and execution of the overall company strategy.
• Appropriately communicate both long-term and short-term strategies with demonstrated knowledge of the market and industry.
• Maintain highly effective interpersonal skills.
• Lead through change, build consensus, motivate and encourage others.
• Provide feedback and coaching as necessary while maintaining a positive and encouraging work environment.
• Build collaborative and productive relationships with various functional groups, both internally and externally.

Education & Skill Requirements

• Advanced degree in horticultural science.
• Vegetable seed experience.
• Experience with vegetable trialing and breeding.
• Experience in coaching a team of creative Product Managers and Technicians.
• Understanding and appreciation for the challenges and opportunities involved in direct-market farming.
• Wide range of experience in gardening, farming, horticulture, and business.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work effectively on one's own and as part of a team.

Essential Physical Requirements

• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to work under a wide range of weather conditions (including inclement/adverse weather).
• Ability to work around pollinating insects.
• Ability to travel.

Benefits

Johnny's offers a great benefit package:

Health Insurance (HMO, PPO & HSA), Dental Insurance, Life Insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability, Medical and Dependent Care Reimbursement, Tuition Reimbursement, and 401K — and we are very proud to say we are employee owned!

Please apply online, or by mail:

Human Resources Manager
Johnny's Selected Seeds
955 Benton Ave.
Winslow, ME 04901

http://www.johnnyseeds.com/t-careers.aspx# 

Position will remain open until filled.