Head of Phytopathology

As Head of Phytopathology, you’ll be one of the key links in ensuring that we can register, market, and deliver strong, resilient and competitive beet and chicory varieties.

You will lead the team responsible for:

• Biotic stress assessments in controlled environments
• Field disease observation trials
• Our diagnostic center for pests & diseases
• The biotic stress technology and innovation pipeline, in close collaboration with the Groupe Florimond Desprez Research Unit

In short: your leadership directly shapes the future of our product performance on the global market.

Leading & inspiring your team (your core mission)

• You take ownership of a passionate team and create an environment where people thrive. You provide clarity, set direction, help your colleagues grow, and foster collaboration across R&I, Breeding and Breeding Operations.
• You ensure your team stays engaged, agile, and proud of their contributions.

Delivering operational excellence

• You make sure our plant pathology data is delivered on time, with high quality and scientific rigor.
• You empower your team with well-maintained infrastructure and smart resource planning.
• You shape the annual and multi-year roadmap for activities within your domain.

Shaping strategy & driving impact

• You own the KPIs of the plant pathology department and continuously look for ways to improve processes, tools, and methodologies.
• You ensure full compliance with HSEQ and regulatory requirements.
• You collaborate in internal and external research projects, and you bring new ideas and solutions.
• You are a member of the Product Innovation & Breeding Operations Leadership Team, where you help shape strategy, innovation initiatives, budgets, and personnel decisions.

In this position, you will be based at our headquarters in Tienen, Belgium.

You’re someone who combines scientific expertise, leadership ambition, interest in international collaborations and a hands-on mentality.

You will be successful if you bring:

• A PhD in Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Biology or a related domain
• At least 5 years of practical experience, ideally from a plant-oriented institute or company, and a proven ability to lead teams
• A willingness to step into the field or the lab when needed — you lead by example.
• Flexibility, openness, and a solution-oriented mindset
• Fluency in English
• A driver’s license
• A willingness and ability to travel regularly to other countries, mainly within Europe

This role is ideal for you if you want to grow your leadership responsibilities, gain exposure across the full R&I and Breeding organization, and leave a visible mark on our future varieties.

The preferred start date would be September 1st, 2026.