Head of Maize Breeding Europe; M​/F

Maize Breeding Leader

Limagrain Field Seeds is the field seeds division of Limagrain, a farmer-owned cooperative and a global seed company with a strong European footprint. We breed, develop, produce, and market maize, wheat, sunflower, oilseed rape, and other crops to help farmers be more productive and sustainable in a context of climate and market volatility.

We are looking for an experienced research leader to head our European maize breeding activities and shape the future of our maize portfolio in key EU markets. Based in Chappes (France) or at one of our major EU maize breeding stations, you will lead a European wide portfolio of breeding programs and R&D projects across all Europe. You will also manage the maize breeding operation team in charge of research seed production (mostly for EU) and plant production (DH & rapid Cycling).

You will report to the Head of LFS Research, be a member of the Research Management Team (RDMT) and play a central role at the interface between R&D, BSA's and strategic marketing. This is an executive position with a high level of autonomy, visibility and impact across LFS.

You will be expected to:

• Define and deliver a clear European maize breeding strategy, aligned with LFS Research, Europe BSA's and Strategic Marketing.
• Strengthen the competitiveness of our maize product portfolio in key silage and grain market segments, with a measurable increase in genetic gain & commercial success.
• Develop and engage an international team of breeders and scientists, reinforcing a culture of excellence, safety, innovation, accountability and collaboration.
• Build a highly collaborative way of working between breeders, Traits & Technologies, production, marketing and sales to accelerate product impact.
• Increase the use of modern breeding technologies and data-driven decision-making across EU maize programs.

Your main responsibilities:

• Set direction and drive impact
• Lead EU maize breeding programs
• Connect programs and functions
• Lead and develop people
• Own your budget and ensure compliance

What we expect of you:

PhD or equivalent in Plant Breeding and Genetics, Agronomy or a related discipline, with at least 10 years of relevant experience in plant breeding or applied crop research. Strong expertise in breeding preferably in Maize, and strong understanding of quantitative genetics and seed industry practices. Proven track-record in leading breeding programs or complex R&D portfolios, ideally in an international and matrix environment.

Experience in integrating modern breeding technologies (genomics, molecular markers, digital tools, rapid cycling, data-driven decision-making) into operational programs. Demonstrated leadership, communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders across research, business and external partners. Strong analytical and strategic thinking, with a pragmatic, results-oriented mindset. Fluency in English is required;
French or another European language is an asset.

Skills:

• Accountability
• Adaptability/Flexibility
• Budgets/Cost Control
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Computer Skills
• Creativity/Innovation
• Customer Focus
• Customer Service
• Decision Making/Judgment
• Entrepreneurship
• Global Perspective
• Initiative
• Integrity/Ethics
• Interpersonal Skills
• Job Knowledge
• Leadership
• Listening Skills
• Managing Conflict
• Managing Diversity
• Managing Performance
• Managing Technology
• Managing for Results
• Meeting Management
• People Management
• Problem Solving/Analysis
• Proficiency in the role
• Project Management
• Quality
• Respect
• Results Focus
• Self Development
• Strategic Thinking/Management
• Teamwork
• Team Leadership
• Technical Skills
• Territory Management
• Work Environment/Safety
• Vision and Values

Your benefits and working environment:

Why join Limagrain Field Seeds Research in this role:

A strategic role at the heart of a farmer-owned company and a leading player in European field seeds, with leading position in maize silage and ambitious growth in grain maize. The opportunity to shape long-term research and product strategy, from lab to field, and to have a direct impact on farmers' resilience and food systems through innovation in seeds. An international, science-driven environment, combining advanced technologies and strong field expertise, with short decision-making lines and real autonomy to innovate.

A collaborative culture and a global network of research centers and stations, offering rich opportunities for learning, mobility and career development.

Recruitment process:

We will review your application carefully in relation to the needs of this role. If your profile is selected, our process includes:

• Pre-qualification interview with the Talent Acquisition team.
• Interviews with the Hiring Manager and HR Director.
• Assessment process (tests and/or assessment centre).
• Final interviews with key stakeholders.