Global Director Discovery & Predevelopment - Chemistry

About the job

Are you ready to shape the future of crop protection innovation?

Are you an accomplished discovery chemistry leader with a passion for advancing breakthrough agricultural solutions? Do you thrive in a global, science‑driven environment where your expertise can influence the next generation of crop protection technologies? If so, we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity at Nufarm.

Nufarm. Evolving Ag.

Nufarm is a global crop protection and seeds technologies company that helps farmers and businesses meet the global challenges of food, feed, fiber and fuel production. From launching innovative crop protection solutions to developing sustainable technologies, Nufarm is evolving with agriculture to drive value for customers around the world.

Own Your Growth at Nufarm

As Global Director, Discovery & Pre-Development Chemistry, you will play a critical role in shaping Nufarm’s innovation pipeline. Reporting to the Global Head of Innovation & Development, you will provide scientific and strategic leadership across early‑phase research, guiding programs from discovery through pre-development selection. This role is central to delivering innovative, high‑impact crop protection solutions across Nufarm’s global portfolio.

How You’ll Help Us Grow

• Provide technical leadership for early‑phase research focused on novel crop protection active ingredients.


• Lead and drive discovery programs from hit generation through lead optimization and pre‑development selection.


• Contribute strategic scientific input to target identification and pipeline positioning.


• Collaborate cross‑functionally to deliver robust, high‑quality innovation outcomes.


• Manage and develop external partnerships with academic institutions, industry collaborators, and contract research organizations.


• Contribute to strategic planning, R&D budgets, and innovation initiatives that support long‑term growth.

Could This Be You?

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.


• 10+ years of experience in agrochemical or crop protection discovery, with a strong record of scientific impact.


• Deep understanding of discovery chemistry and early-stage R&D within a global crop protection portfolio.


• Proven leadership, collaboration, and communication skills across diverse stakeholders.


• Ability to solve complex scientific problems and champion innovation in a dynamic environment.