Regulatory Science Manager-Southern Afri at Bayer

Job Purpose:

• Lead and oversee regulatory activities for the Crop Protection, Seeds,and Traits portfolios within Southern Africa.
• Ensure effective adherence to local Regulatory Science and Compliance standards while driving the stewardship agenda for Crop Protection. 
• Proactively represent Bayer Crop Science (BCS) with a focus on influencing and shaping the regulatory landscape in the region in Industry association

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Directly manage the evaluation and submission of all regulatory data necessary for obtaining and maintaining product authorizations for Bayer's portfolio in Southern Africa, ensuring timely execution with a high degree of autonomy.
• Provide strategic guidance and actionable recommendations to regional and country teams to facilitate timely product testing and registration.
• Communicate progress against key milestones for all regulatory applications and keep EMEA Regulatory Affairs (RA) and business teams informed about significant regulatory and policy developments.
• Monitor and analyze evolving national regulatory requirements for Bayer's portfolios, defining country-specific strategies that align with EMEA Regulatory Science objectives.
• Ensure ongoing regulatory compliance throughout the product life cycle by actively participating in stewardship initiatives.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the BCS regulatory organization and local regulators, addressing regulatory matters effectively.
• Build and maintain strong networks with local authorities, trade associations, and scientific communities to support BCS strategies, contributing to outreach efforts related to policy, risk assessment, and scientific discussions.
• Represent BCS in relevant local industry associations, advocating for the company's priorities and ensuring they are effectively defended.
• Ensure that regional and global regulatory priorities are communicated and respected during cross-functional collaborations at the local level.
• Stay informed about the latest scientific developments, relevant legislation, and guidelines at the national level, sharing pertinent information with regional and global teams as necessary.
• Foster a collaborative working relationship between global and regional Regulatory Science teams to enhance alignment and efficiency.

Skills and Qualifications Required:

• Advanced Degree in a relevant Agriculture, Scientific, Plant Pathology and Agronomy field (e.g., Life Sciences, Environmental Science, Regulatory Affairs).
• SACNASP accreditation. 
• Extensive experience in regulatory affairs within the agricultural sector, particularly in Crop Protection.
• Proven track record in managing complex regulatory submissions and maintaining product authorizations.
• Strong understanding of local and regional regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Ability to navigate and respond proactively to changing regulatory environments.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with a focus on delivering results and driving initiatives.