Manager-Product Development

Manager - Product Development (Field Crops)

Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Function: Research & Development / Product Development
Department: Seeds / Agri Business
Reporting To: Head - Product Development / Zonal Product Development Lead

Position Purpose

The Manager - Product Development (Field Crops) will be responsible for leading product evaluation, validation, advancement, and commercialization support activities for field crop hybrids and varieties across the assigned geography. The role will generate actionable product insights through scientifically managed trials, market evaluations, and farmer feedback to drive successful product launches and strengthen the organization's product portfolio.

The incumbent will work closely with Breeding, Agronomy, Seed Production, Marketing, and Sales teams to identify high-performing products that meet farmer needs and business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Product Evaluation & Development

• Lead product development activities for field crops across Uttar Pradesh and adjoining markets.
• Design, execute, and monitor multilocation trials, demonstration plots, and advanced product evaluations.
• Assess candidate hybrids/varieties for yield, adaptability, pest and disease tolerance, agronomic performance, and market suitability.
• Recommend products for advancement, commercialization, or discontinuation based on data-backed insights.
• Ensure compliance with established trial protocols and quality standards.

Trial Planning & Execution

• Develop annual product evaluation plans aligned with breeding and commercial objectives.
• Manage trial locations, collaborators, and field operations to ensure timely execution.
• Monitor trial performance through critical crop stages and ensure quality data collection.
• Analyze trial results and prepare technical recommendations for management reviews.

Farmer & Market Validation

• Establish strong relationships with progressive farmers, key influencers, and channel partners.
• Conduct large-scale product demonstrations and field days to validate product acceptance.
• Gather and analyze farmer feedback to support product positioning and portfolio decisions.
• Identify changing customer needs and emerging market opportunities.

Commercialization Support

• Partner with Sales and Marketing teams for product positioning, launch planning, and market development initiatives.
• Provide technical support during product launches and promotional campaigns.
• Develop technical literature, crop advisories, and product performance summaries.

Team Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Lead and mentor Product Development Officers/Executives within the assigned region.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams including Breeding, Agronomy, Production, Supply Chain, Regulatory, and Marketing.
• Drive collaboration between research and commercial functions to accelerate product success.

Market Intelligence & Competitive Benchmarking

• Monitor competitor hybrids/varieties and evaluate their performance against company products.
• Generate insights on industry trends, farmer preferences, and crop dynamics.
• Provide strategic recommendations for strengthening the product portfolio.

Data Management & Reporting

• Ensure accurate, timely, and high-quality trial data collection and reporting.
• Present product performance reports and advancement recommendations to leadership teams.
• Maintain digital records and databases related to product evaluation activitie