Research And Development Manager

We are currently looking for a Research and Development ManagerPurpose of the RoleTo apply observational and quantitative methods to enhance the consumer experience in purchasing horticultural products, especially cut flowers. The role focuses on developing innovative agronomic and post-harvest solutions to industry challenges, while identifying opportunities to differentiate the business through data-driven consultancy and testing services.Core Business ResponsibilitiesDesign or approve all project experiments conducted within APEXEnsure standardized methodologies and daily data collection (364 days/year)Maintain accuracy and integrity of data systems/databasesOversee team and facility operations in line with client expectations and quality standardsLead performance management, training, and development for APEX staffIdentify and implement beneficial technologies and practices through research findingsPrepare timely and accurate reports, presenting data and insights to internal and external clientsBuild and sustain strong academic collaborations; stay current with scientific advancementsPerson ProfileCritical Success FactorsTimely and efficient delivery of pre-determined projects and trialsEffective management of departmental operations (staff, H&S, costs, quality)Recognition in the industry for independence, quality, and timeliness of researchClear and confident communication of key findings to a wide range of stakeholdersCreation of novel, effective solutions to persistent industry problemsQualificationsMinimum: BSc Degree (preferably in Biological Sciences)Full, valid UK driving licenceStrong IT skills with extensive Microsoft Office experienceProficient in statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS, Minitab)Skills & ExperienceExperience in the horticultural and/or retail industry (advantageous)Knowledge of plant breeding, production, and post-harvest processesFamiliarity with plant biology and physiologyExcellent analytical, problem-solving, and organisational abilitiesAttributesPassion for horticulture and customer-centric mindsetStrong commercial and scientific acumenAbility to build trusted relationships with stakeholders at all levelsPragmatic thinker with high attention to detailFlexibility to meet work schedule demands, including travel (sometimes short notice)So, what’s the package? When you work at MM Flowers you get more than just a salary.Holiday allowances are calculated on the days worked and you can find your allowance in your offer letter.Pension Scheme - You will be auto-enrolled onto the company pension scheme after 3 months. At present we operate an auto enrolment scheme where you will benefit from contributions from us.Onsite Parking – free parking is available onsite.Recommend a Friend Scheme – £250 is payable to you when you recommend a friend who is successful through the application process and successfully completes their 3-month probationary period.Career Progression – we actively encourage employees from within the business to consider roles which become available and whether that be within their field or want to consider a cross functional move.Wonderful working environment– we are all working in a modern contemporary purpose-built State of the Art facility.We are committed to an open ethical and fair working environment and have a Whistleblowing Policy in place to ensure complaints and concerns are handled appropriately.We work with an Occupational Health provider to support employees both mentally and physically.We run corporate engagement initiatives throughout the year.We gather employee feedback annually to see how we can improve the employee experience.Grocery AidWhat are you waiting for, we would love to hear from you.If this position doesn’t match your experience but you love the sound of MM Flowers we welcome speculative applicants, please forward your cv and a covering letter about the type of role or function you are interested in being considered for.MM Flowers are a proud equal opportunity employer, and we understand the benefits of nurturing a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, genetic information. Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation to complete the job role advertised are encouraged to apply.We believe we can only achieve our potential if we employ a diverse population of people, ideas, and perspectives. We are committed to grow our workplace culture, encouraging team members to feel unique valued and engaged, enabling them to achieve their full potential.All recruitment activities go through our internal Talent Acquisition Team and currently, this role doesn’t require agency input. Please do not forward resumes directly to MM Flowers employees/managers; we do not accept unsolicited resumes and are not responsible for any associated fees.

Created: 2025-08-13