Data Strategy Implementation Manager (m/f/d)

WELCOME TO BASF

Digitalization stands as one of the strategic pillars of BASF, driving our commitment to innovation and efficiency. Our Innovation Pipeline increasingly relies on high-quality data to facilitate timely selection decisions, thereby accelerating the launch of novel agricultural products that meet the evolving needs of our customers. To achieve this, we must harness advanced data science techniques, including artificial intelligence, supported by robust, FAIR data foundations. Strategic data targets are established in collaboration with R&D process owners, the Digital Strategy team, and Data Governance to ensure a cohesive approach.

The Data Strategy Implementation Manager will play a pivotal role in overseeing the execution of these data strategic targets within the Field Crop Seeds & Traits R&D department. This position will work in alignment with other R&D departments within BASF Agricultural Products Solutions, providing essential leadership to ensure that data objectives are consistent with established data governance policies. When gaps are identified, the manager will pinpoint the necessary skills and resources required to address these discrepancies and will assist in securing resources from relevant governance bodies in R&D, data, and digital. The position will be based in Gent, Belgium. 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

• As a member of the Seed & Trait Digital team, you will lead the establishment of data targets essential for developing R&D capabilities and supporting the definition of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs). This involves collaboration with R&D programs to define the specific capabilities to be developed, the Digital Strategy team to address the digital aspects of these R&D capabilities, and Data Governance to provide the necessary policies and guidance.
• In your role within the S&T Digital team, you will ensure that the defined data targets are incorporated into project scopes. You will work on enhancing these data and digital products while continuously monitoring the projects during the implementation phase to ensure alignment with the established targets.
• You will consistently oversee the daily operations of R&D functions, as well as the management of data and digital products, ensuring that the defined data targets are maintained in accordance with data governance policies. You will also make recommendations for necessary corrections as needed.
• Furthermore, you will facilitate stakeholder involvement in identifying the required skills and resources to meet the data targets, engaging with data producers, data consumers, and data engineers. You will support the process of securing these resources with the relevant governance bodies across R&D, HR, data, and digital.

WHAT YOU OFFER

• A master’s degree with at least 10 years of relevant experience, preferably in the field of Natural Sciences, including a minimum of 4 years in functional leadership roles.
• A proven track record of successfully leading projects or teams for at least 4 years.
• Demonstrated ability to develop strategic plans aimed at achieving significant business outcomes, ideally those that are closely linked to Data Management, Data Quality, and Data Science.
• Proven experience in leading change management initiatives.
• Preferably, familiarity with FAIR data principles (or similar concepts) and experience in digitalization efforts.
• Experience in implementing policies and procedures effectively.
• Leadership experience in initiatives aimed at enhancing agility and operational excellence, utilizing methodologies such as Six Sigma, Kaizen, Lean, Agile, etc.
• Practical experience in integrating data across domains relevant to Seed & Trait R&D.

WHAT WE OFFER

• A permanent contract within an attractive working environment in a professional and motivated team.
• A role with challenging assignments and responsibilities.
• An attractive base salary in relation to your diploma and competencies, an annual bonus, and extra-legal benefits.
• A good work-life balance.

HOW TO REACH US

If you need more Information about the process or the vacancy, please reach out to Patrick at talent-acquisition-belgium@basf.com.

ABOUT US

BASF is a multinational company dedicated to revolutionizing agricultural science. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that address global challenges in food security and sustainability.

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