Zambia National Commercial Bank Plc
Reference Number
HCBPKM23102024
Description
JOB PURPOSE
This function plays a crucial role in supporting the development of innovative solutions, products, and technologies. The role focuses on conducting research, running experiments, and developing prototypes to validate concepts and explore new opportunities. Working closely with the Senior Specialist – R&D and other teams, the individual will contribute to identifying trends, gathering insights, and turning ideas into actionable solutions that align with the organization’s innovation goals.
Under the supervision of the Research & Design Senior Specialist, the following are among the Job Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct research on emerging trends, technologies, and best practices relevant to the organization’s innovation efforts.
- Support feasibility studies and data analysis to assess the potential of new technologies or solutions.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge on industry advancements and provide insights for R&D projects.
- Assist in the development of prototypes and pilot solutions to test new ideas and technologies.
- Collect feedback from tests and experiments to improve prototypes in collaboration with the team.
- Document findings and present recommendations to the Senior Specialist – R&D for further action.
- Run controlled experiments to assess the viability and performance of new technologies.
- Monitor testing processes, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements based on feedback.
- Collaborate with product, engineering, and design teams to refine solutions.
- Assist in managing R&D project timelines, deliverables, and documentation.
- Support the Senior Specialist in tracking project progress and preparing status reports.
- Maintain organized records of research activities, methodologies, and outcomes for knowledge sharing.
- Work with cross-functional teams, including engineering, design, and external partners, to align R&D initiatives.
- Participate in brainstorming sessions to contribute new ideas and innovative approaches.
- Support knowledge transfer initiatives through presentations, reports, and collaborative tools.
- 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, or a related field.
- Additional certifications in emerging technologies (AI, Data Science, IoT) or R&D methodologies are advantageous.
- Zambia Qualifications Authority (Zaqa) Verification Certificate for Tertiary Qualifications
- Minimum of 6 years of experience with at least 4 years in R&D, product development, or related roles.
- Hands-on experience with prototyping and conducting experiments is preferred.
- Familiarity with R&D tools, frameworks, and methodologies.
- Basic knowledge of emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and IoT.
- Proficiency in using data analysis tools for research and experimentation.
JOB CORE COMPETENCIES
- Curiosity & passion for exploring new ideas and technologies
- Problem solving skills
- Collaboration skills
- Analytical skills
- Drive for results
- Attention to detail
- Business acumen
- Adaptability
- Communication and presentation skills