Research manager. Waltham Petcare Science Institute.
The Waltham Petcare Science Institute is Mars Petcare's pet research centre and part of the Science and Diagnostics division. Our work focuses on the healthcare, nutritional and behavioural needs of pets and Human-Animal Interaction (HAI). The science we deliver supports development of innovative products and services enabling the business to deliver against our Purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS™.
This role is responsible for the ongoing development and management of a programme of research focused on leveraging animal behaviour and wellbeing research, including human-animal interaction.
Professional Qualifications:
PhD in animal behaviour, psychology, zoology or a related science discipline; or equivalent experience.
What are we looking for?
Broad and deep knowledge of operating in an R&D environment, either in the academic or industrial sectors (experience of both preferred)
A proven record in leading, developing and delivering a high-quality research programme leveraging animal behaviour
Comfort in operating within changing and highly ambiguous environments
Experience of setting strategic research goals and measures to meet business priorities
Ability to network, engage and influence key stakeholders both internally and externally
Skilled in customer focus and developing customer facing solutions
Comfort in continuously acquiring knowledge in new scientific disciplines
Excellent analytical, problem solving and conceptual skills
Proven track record in communicating key research findings through writing in peer reviewed publications, and presenting at key global forums
Exceptional people management skills
What will be your key responsibilities?
In partnership with Senior Research Managers, define and manage a high-quality research programme that is aligned with, and delivers against, the strategic goals of Waltham’s research plan and broader business needs
To lead, manage and motivate a team of direct reports engaged in behavioural and human-animal research.
Provide practical and theoretical expertise in animal behaviour, in a range of contexts that are relevant to the Mars Petcare ecosystem.
Establish professional networks, work with and influence internal and external collaborators to establish Mars Petcare as a market leader in pet behaviour and human-animal interaction (HAI) expertise.
Research, acquire, develop and establish behavioural approaches, tools and insights which will enable new products and services for Mars Petcare.
Communicate and support the business implementation of pet behaviour approaches, tools and insights across the relevant Mars Petcare business units e.g. Royal Canin, Mars Veterinary Health.
Integrate scientific knowledge with business, intellectual property and regulatory constraints to deliver results that can be leveraged to support new product innovation and commercial application.
Develop and deliver an external communication plan of research outputs in peer reviewed journals and at scientific meetings to enhance corporate reputation.
Responsible for the management of a research budget.