Breeding Program Manager

Job Locations UK-Fife-St Andrews
Job ID
2025-12174
Category
Research
Position Type
Full Time
Reports To
Sr Sales Manager

Role Overview

Our Breeding Programme Managers are the front line of everything we do at Xelect. With an expert team of biologists, geneticists, laboratory staff and bioinformaticians behind you, you will lead the genetics programmes for our customers, working directly with them to design, implement and develop their broodstock programme.

Our sector and company are growing fast, as we take on new customers all around the world, developing selective breeding programmes for new and established species, using the latest technologies.

For our customers, working with you will be like having access to their own in-house genetics team, and you will work closely with them to design, deliver and optimize their selective breeding programmes.

 

Xelect offers significant opportunities for career development, with a flat structure and a clear career path for ambitious and motivated individuals.

 

Here's a link to find out more about the role https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/sUcOH9MN5D72C

You Will

  • Manage the day-to-day running of our programmes: co-ordinating internal resources, liaising with our in-house specialist genetics laboratory and with clients to ensure high quality and timely completion of all routine genotyping and breeding activities.
  • Curate and manage large datasets using our in-house customer databases and use these to conduct and deliver genetic analyses and broodstock selections.
  • Report breeding programme performance and KPIs to clients via written reports and presentations.
  • Contribute to strategic breeding programme decisions.
  • Regularly visit our customers, developing strong personal relationships and getting a deep understanding of their production conditions and commercial goals.
  • Provide hands on consultancy and support to our customers at key times in their breeding programme.

Requirements

  • A MSc/PhD (or equivalent experience) in aquaculture, quantitative genetics, finfish/shellfish reproduction or animal breeding
  • Strong communication skills with excellent written and spoken English
  • Excellent time management skills and the ability to manage activity across multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Knowledge and experience of applied aquaculture genetics including hatchery and broodstock management
  • Excellent data management and computer literacy skills
  • High levels of motivation and a collaborative mindset, with a desire to constantly improve our service
  • Willingness to travel to other countries and experience new cultures
  • Proficiency scripting in R (or similar languages)

Additional desirable skills include:

  •  
  • Use of linear mixed models to estimate breeding values in selective breeding programmes
  • Knowledge of population genetics
  • Proficiency in other languages
  • Peer-reviewed publications in relevant fields.

Business Overview

Xelect is one of the largest aquaculture genetics companies, providing broodstock management and genetic improvement programmes for some of the best known producers globally. We support around 30 breeding programmes, in 12 different countries for 13 different species, including finfish, shrimp and bivalves.

We provide our customers with a full range of genetic services and technologies, ranging from strategic consultancy for government agencies to full genomic selection programmes for some of the biggest producers in the industry.

 

Genus is an agricultural biotechnology pioneer. We are a global FTSE 250 company, headquartered in the UK, and listed on the London Stock Exchange.  Genus PLC has a presence in over 70 countries and a global workforce of over 3,000 employees and growing.  We are a worldwide leader in porcine and bovine animal genetics, partnering with farmers to transform how we nourish the world – a mission that is important to a sustainable future. 

 

Our vision is clear: Pioneering animal genetic improvement to sustainably nourish the world.

 

Genus Values

  • Collaborate as One Team
  • Create Value for Customers
  • Innovate with Purpose
  • Never stop improving

DEI

 

Genus is a place where you can be yourself and be part of a growing global team. We have a culture of respect, openness and fairness for all. Whatever your background, your role or your area of work, you will have the chance to thrive in an environment that inspires, challenges and supports you to succeed.

 

Tackling climate change: 

 

  • Monitor and identify goals for the reduction of our GHG emissions from our own operations.
  • Drive porcine and bovine genetic improvements which support productivity gains and improve feed efficiency, enabling a reduction in the production of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per unit of milk or meat produced
  • Identify facility and other opportunities for reductions in GHG emissions, consistent with our goals
  • Partner and advocate for policies that advance positive climate goals and identified United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Benefits Overview

  • Performance related bonus
  • 25 days holidays + Bank Holidays 
  • Health Cash back scheme 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Employee share plan 
  • Hybrid working: 3 days per week in the office. Remote working will be  considered for suitable applicants.
  • Flexible Working Policy (Where appropriate/practicable) 
  • Enhanced maternity leave 12 weeks at full pay followed by 4 weeks at 50% followed by SMP
  • Comprehensive L&D program including career development programs, access to Genus University and Mango (languages) 

Equal Employment Opportunities

Genus is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. Genus prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Genus conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

Recruitment Fraud Warning

Genus plc will never ask you to provide fees or payment for computer, software, or other equipment or supplies during the recruitment and/or onboarding process. If you have any questions about your individual application, please contact the Genus Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@genusplc.com.

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