Research & Development Business Manager - Northern California

WHO WE ARE

 

 

Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC is an innovator and service provider for agricultural and professional markets in the United States and around the world. We are one of America's only retailers and distributors with expertise in formulation, research and development, precision technology, data solutions, professional application and manufacturing. For nearly 70 years our people have been driven to provide sustainable solutions that help feed, clothe and fuel the world. With over 450+ locations nationwide and over 6,000 employees we rank among the top agricultural service companies in volume and sales of agricultural products and services.

 

 

ABOUT THE JOB

 

Join Helena as an R&D Business Manager and lead innovation from the ground up at our Northern California territory location based in Chico, CA. In this pivotal leadership role, you'll oversee a dynamic team of research professionals, guiding field-based research operations across a diverse portfolio of crops including tree nuts, tree fruits, wine grapes, rice, field crops and row crops.

 

You'll be at the forefront of product development, managing the full lifecycle from benchtop chemistry to commercialization. As the strategic bridge between R&D and Sales, you'll help shape the future for sustainable agricultural solutions while managing a dynamic business, driving team performance, and fostering key relationships with internal stakeholders and the grower community. This is a unique opportunity to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

 

WHAT YOUR DAY WILL LOOK LIKE

 

• Manages all facets of the field-based R&D operation within the territory assigned.
• Oversees management, training and recruitment of R&D employees.
• Prepares, reviews and manages budgets and P&L statements for assigned profit center.
• Manages and delegates assignments to appropriate R&D team members.
• Manages and participates in the application and evaluation of experimental and standard products in agricultural and specialty business sectors for their efficacy and performance.
• Actively identifies and establishes relationships with development, technical service and Sales Representatives for the recruitment of study assignments within territory.
• Establishes relationships with Helena field teams and growing community for placement of studies within territory.
• Serves as a technical lead for the development and launch of new technologies within assigned territory.
• Actively identifies new technology and methods for field development of products in agricultural and specialty markets with inclusion of phenotyping, drones, software systems and other new technologies.
• Reviews and compiles collected data and reports and communicates reports/findings to appropriate departments, vendors, academia, customers and others as needed. This includes making presentations at sales, training, supplier and professional meetings.
• Represents Helena at professional societies, outreach activities, grower and sales meetings, field days and other functions.
• May be required to drive a company vehicle.
• Provides excellent customer service to all internal and external customers.
• Other work-related duties as assigned by your leader.
• Regular and reliable attendance is required.
• Follows all company policies and procedures.

 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

 

• Bachelor's degree, preferably in agronomy, weed science, entomology, pathology or related discipline is required.
• Master's degree or PhD is preferred.
• Three years of related work experience is required.
• Two years of leadership experience is preferred.
• Must have QAL (Qualified Applicators License) or will need to obtain immediately.

 

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS