Global Head of Research Chemistry

Syngenta Crop Protection is a global leader in agriculture that integrates advanced science with digital solutions to deliver intelligent crop protection technologies.

As Global Head of Research Chemistry, you will lead a worldwide team of 300+ scientists across Switzerland, the UK, and India. Your role focuses on delivering chemical activities that support the discovery and optimization of new active ingredients, driving innovation in line with Syngenta’s R&D strategy. You will establish and execute a clear strategy that turns scientific and business priorities into impact, champion a digital-first transformation powered by data, AI, predictive science, automation, and generative chemistry, and build strong cross‑functional partnerships to create high‑value solutions.

• Pipeline Delivery: Ensure delivery of all research chemistry activities to support the innovation and promotion of candidates to development.
• HSE Leadership: Champion a world‑class HSE culture and drive continuous safety improvements across all chemical activities.
• Scientific Excellence: Set high standards for functional excellence, fostering innovation and robust methodologies across the global function.
• Strategic Alignment: Translate R&D objectives into actionable chemistry strategies that drive long‑term business value.
• Talent & Culture: Foster a creative environment that promotes curiosity, courage, accountability, and collaboration, attracting and retaining scientific talent.
• Digital Transformation: Accelerate innovation by developing and integrating AI, predictive science, automation, and generative chemistry.
• Resource & Budget Management: Manage costs effectively and balance resources to prioritize high‑impact strategic outputs.
• Cross‑Functional Leadership: Lead the Chemistry Leadership Team and partner across R&D to ensure seamless delivery of chemical research goals.
• Enterprise Leadership: Build relationships and trust with cross‑functional partners and senior stakeholders to advance shared priorities.
• External Influence: Maintain strategic partnerships with leading academic and industrial research organizations.

• PhD with post‑doc in Chemistry.
• 10+ years in research leadership roles, preferably in agriculture or life sciences.
• Proven track record of delivering major and complex projects.
• Experience leading large, global teams across multiple geographies.
• Experience leading digital transformation in research and data‑enabled innovation.
• Understanding of external innovation ecosystems and emerging technologies.
• Exposure to multiple crop protection product lines and portfolios.
• Experience working in a matrix organization.
• Strategic thinking: Ability to define and execute a compelling global strategy, translating priorities into clear direction and impact.
• Results orientation: Proven track record of strong outcomes and customer‑centric innovation.
• Role modeling of learning and growth behavior while fostering a strong learning culture.
• Ability to lead through ambiguity, change, and complexity, balancing speed, quality, and cost while building trust.

• Opportunity to contribute to impactful work in an international environment.
• Contribution to process safety and shaping safety legislation worldwide.
• Open culture with a diverse workforce welcoming new ideas.
• Learning culture with extensive training options.
• Competitive pension fund, flexible working, attractive bonus system, onsite doctor, fitness room, and canteen.
• Family‑friendly initiatives, child and family allowance.

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.