We are looking for a dynamic, innovation focused Senior Manager Scouting & Licensing. The position reports to the Lead of Scouting & Licensing as part of Group Strategy, and is to be filled as soon as possible on a full-time, permanent basis at our Gateway Research Center in Saint Louis, MO. You will be responsible for driving and continuously improving the KWS-wide external innovation strategy by identifying, assessing and negotiating external collaboration-, license-, and investment opportunities. As part of the Global Strategy Department, you will additionally drive and manage group-wide strategic projects in areas such as process- and organizational excellence in close alignment with KWS’ Business Units and Service Functions

What you can expect to do:

• Identify, evaluate, and conceptualize long-term market/business opportunities. Work closely with KWS’ Business Units and Global Strategy to analyze and quantify the long-term impact of changes in markets, competitors and global trends on agriculture and KWS' business activities.
• In close alignment with internal stakeholders, continuously observe, identify and assess external value-capture opportunities with relevance to KWS’ company strategy and specifically in areas such as enabling technologies, traits, breeding, biologicals, seed production as well as digital solutions. Effectively communicate trends and relevant technologies to the respective internal stakeholders.
• Lead complex negotiations of collaboration and license agreements on global level. Ensure success by leading negotiations in close cooperation with internal stakeholders.
• Build and continuously enlarge relevant global innovation networks with academic centers of excellence, startup- and peer companies. Represent and present KWS at international conferences and other appropriate occasions.
• Independently manage large KWS R&D alliances by ensuring that milestones and project goals are reached in time and budget.
• Continuously improve efficiency of scouting process and the results of contract negotiations. Identify and analyze global R&D and technology trends with relevance for the KWS R&D strategy (i.e., breeding technologies, traits, enabling technologies and digital tools).
• Lead global projects in areas such as organizational and process excellence in close alignment with Business Units and Service Functions.

Bring in your strengths:

• Post Graduate degree in life sciences, agricultural sciences or agricultural economy, MBA is a plus
• >8 years professional experience in relevant field & industry (i.e., plant breeding, plant biotech, business development, strategy consulting).
• Broad knowledge of plant sciences, plant breeding, digital agriculture as well as the agricultural value chain.
• Team player with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Experience in managing complex, international, multi-stakeholder projects
• Proven track-record in complex contract negotiations in an international context
• Independent, pro-active, and goal-oriented work style.
• Very good and broad knowledge about the relevant global startup communities as well as the relevant academic centers of excellence
• Very good knowledge regarding intellectual property rights.
• Good knowledge about and experience in conducting business case analysis and in using technology valuation methodologies.
• Fluent communication skills in English. Any additional language is a plus.
• Entrepreneurial mindset
• Willingness to travel internationally on a frequent basis.

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary: salary range is $120 000 - $150 000 per year based on qualifications.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes 401(k) employer match, health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Pension Plan: Secure your future with our robust pension plan.
• Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with flexible PTO.
• Professional Development: Access to training and development opportunities to help you grow.
• For a complete list of benefits, see the KWS US careers page.

Grow your career forward by submitting your application online via our online application system SuccessFactors! Please click the “Apply” button which you can find in the online ad.