Zambia National Commercial Bank Plc
Reference Number
HCBPKM21102024
Description
JOB PURPOSE
This function is responsible for driving the discovery, development, and implementation of innovative products, services, and solutions. The role involves leading R&D initiatives, identifying emerging trends and technologies, and conducting experiments that align with the organization’s strategic goals. This individual will play a pivotal role in future-proofing the organization by collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring ideas from concept to reality.
Under the supervision of the Innovation & Solutions Head, the following are among the Job Key Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with the Head of Innovation & Technology to define the R&D strategy and roadmap.
- Identify key research areas, emerging trends, and technological advancements to pursue.
- Align R&D efforts with the organization’s innovation objectives and business goals.
- Lead the ideation, research, and development of new technologies, products, and services.
- Conduct feasibility studies, market research, and proof-of-concept projects.
- Explore disruptive technologies (AI, IoT, blockchain, etc.) to develop innovative solutions.
- Work closely with internal teams (product, design, engineering) to align R&D outcomes with business needs.
- Engage external partners, startups, and universities for collaborative research efforts.
- Present findings, insights, and recommendations to senior leadership and other stakeholders.
- Develop prototypes and pilots to validate R&D concepts.
- Establish testing frameworks to evaluate the performance, scalability, and usability of new technologies.
- Collect feedback and iterate prototypes to optimize solutions for full-scale deployment.
- Manage R&D projects from inception to delivery, ensuring timelines, budgets, and objectives are met.
- Identify risks, dependencies, and opportunities within projects and propose mitigation strategies.
- Track and report on the progress of R&D initiatives, ensuring alignment with KPIs and goals.
- Facilitate knowledge transfer by documenting research processes, methodologies, and outcomes.
- Mentor and guide junior R&D staff, fostering a culture of curiosity and experimentation.
- Organize workshops, seminars, and knowledge-sharing sessions across the innovation unit.
- Any other responsibilities or tasks as maybe assigned by management.
INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CONTACT
- External: Vendors
- Internal: All internal Business Units
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Grade 12 Certificate with Credit or above mandatory in Mathematics and English and any other three subjects
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Innovation Management, or a related field.
- Advanced certifications in relevant fields (AI, Data Science, IoT, etc.) are preferred.
- Zambia Qualifications Authority (Zaqa) Verification Certificate for Tertiary Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience with at least 5 years in research and development, with a focus on technology or product innovation.
- Demonstrated ability to lead R&D projects and bring ideas from concept to deployment.
- Experience in collaborative research with external partners, such as startups or academic institutions.
- Strong understanding of emerging technologies (AI, IoT, blockchain, machine learning, etc.).
- Hands-on experience with prototyping tools and development frameworks.
- Familiarity with agile R&D methodologies and innovation management processes.
JOB CORE COMPETENCIES
- Innovative mindset
- Problem solving skills
- Decision making skills
- Collaboration skills
- Analytical skills
- Drive for results
- Attention to detail
- Business acumen
- Adaptability
- Communication and presentation skills