Sr Regional Corn Breeding Lead

WHO WE ARE
GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture through technological innovation. With a continuous focus on research and development, we bring the most advanced and high‑performing seed varieties to the market, creating new growth opportunities for our partners and for the future of agribusiness.

Our North America portfolio includes leading brands like AgriGold®, DONMARIO®, Mustang™, PRIDE® Seeds, Revere®, and Virtue, supported by a network of research superstations, one of the largest corn genetic pools and the fourth-largest corn research program. Through our combined expertise, we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, delivering top-tier seed solutions to help farmers grow and succeed. GDM’s region-first brand model reinforces the company’s long-standing promise to deliver top-performing genetics and robust agronomic support - ensuring farmers have the right genetics, in the right place, at the right time.

OUR DNA

We are passionate about what we do and driven by curiosity. We believe that learning and innovation are the foundation for transforming the future of agriculture. Our focus is on cutting‑edge genetic development, creating solutions that make a difference in the field and in the global market.

Our DNA not only guides us but also connects us: we work with empathy, transparency, and respect, ensuring agile and flexible operations. Here, you are the protagonist of your career, because we believe every individual plays an essential role in building something greater.

If you are passionate about learning and want to be part of evolving agriculture, GDM is the right place for you!

We are proud to offer a competitive benefits package, which includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match (eligible 1^st of the month following date of hire)
• Generous vacation time & paid holidays
• Volunteer Time Off
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition and Health Club reimbursement
• Other benefits: Company paid Long-term and short-term disability insurance, company paid life insurance and optional supplemental life insurance, health savings account (HSA) with a company contribution and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

GDM is an equal opportunity employer. We are proud to welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage you to apply.

Learn more about us at gdmseeds.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @GDMSeeds.

Job Summary:

Provides leadership and supervision of the people and breeding assets of their regional team that delivers improved inbred lines and hybrid products for zones (RM5-7).  Also is responsible for the duties of a Senior Corn Breeder in managing a fully resourced breeding program of either RM5, 6, or 7.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Establish breeding and testing strategy aligned to the product needs of the region.
• Establish germplasm strategies that are consistent with long-term product development needs.
• Manage, direct, and monitor progress of corn product development in the
• Conduct a breeding program within the designated region.
• Coordinate late-stage trials (EX2 and EX3) across regions.
• Optimize and coordinate resources and allocations for breeders within region.
• Manage co-hybrid strategy and track all co-hybrid products for the region.
• Design and implement overall strategy for data interconnection across regions and RMs to speed up product development and proper calibration of genomic models.
• Work with Analytics and Operations Managers to implement new technologies into corn breeding programs.
• Lead and mentor breeders, nursery manger, line development assistants, and hybrid development assistants.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Independent, highly motivated, and self-directed leadership skills.
• Strong technical understanding of innovative technologies and their application in product development.
• Proven strategic thinking ability to balance short and long-term goals.
• Ability to work across GDM Business and R&D groups.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Excellent personal interaction skills for developing strong working relationships.

Education and Experience:

• D. in plant breeding or quantitative genetics
• Ten (10) or more years of experience in corn inbred and hybrid development.
• Experience managing teams and mentoring employees and technicians.
• Must have valid driver’s license and meet MVR Requirements.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Supervise and oversee performance of a team of employees.
• Recruits, interviews, hires, and trains new employees.
• Oversees the daily workflow of the department.
• Provides constructive and timely performance evaluations.
• Handles discipline and termination of employees in accordance with company policy.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
• Ability to travel up to 30%, including international travel