Phytopathology Platform Manager position - LVS, Culiacan, Sinaloa (MEX).

Limagrain Vegetable Seeds (LVS) is a global seed company providing breeding, production, and sales of vegetable seeds. We are invested in our customers’ success and the future of our industry, and we believe that our most valuable resource is our employees. We promote functional mobility between jobs and departments, and we encourage our employees to grow through interdepartmental and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a global company, and part of Limagrain, we offer the opportunity to work in many different countries, short or long term. If you are interested in working in a fast-paced, culturally diverse team environment, we invite you to consider this job opportunity.

In order to respond to LVS phytopathology needs in Mexico, a platform has been dedicated to plant pathology testing based in our Vilmorin-Mikado site in Culiacan (MEX). The Phytopathology Lab Manager will directly manage a Research Technician to organize and perform established plant pathology tests for the three LVS Business Units (HMClause, Hazera and Vilmorin-Mikado). This platform services the tomato and pepper breeding programs in routine testing, as well as develops new protocols for local diseases and supports different teams for diagnostic and phytosanitary monitoring

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

·       Plan, organize and ensure execution of activities in the plant pathology facilities to support breeder/client requirements.

·       Ensure that data/results are produced by the team with the best quality and efficiency for timelines and costs. 

·       Manage the transfer of application tools and methods resulting from research, as well as improve protocols, methods and processes in a spirit of continuous improvement and cost effectiveness. 

·       Develop and manage the team dedicated to these activities.

·       Ensure laboratory, infrastructure and equipment are in good order and are maintained for optimal production and research activities.

·       Manage and report on lab operational budget, and support in development of annual capital expenditures dedicated to these activities.

·       Support definition of requirements for technical implementation and lead relevant projects.

·       Actively participate in production activities in the lab, greenhouse and field (~80% of total activity).

·       Establish schedule and timelines for annual activities.

·       Provide diagnostic support for local breeding team and sales/marketing team in Mexico.

·       Work closely with local partners including breeders, cultivation workers and station manager.

·       Work closely with other plant pathologists within the LVS community.

·       Provide training and support as needed for local station phytosanitary activities.

·       Define and manage KPI for the activities.

·       Generate reports and summaries required in a timely manner.

·       Review and approve team performance management. 

·       Follow workplace safety rules, regulations, standards and practices.