Waheed Akhtar

Experience

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  Centre of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

  Sept 2011 - Jan 2013

  Research Fellow

  Project: Management of Citrus Greening by producing healthy plants, monitoring reactors, and identifying tolerance.• Successfully screened and selected citrus cultivars with enhanced resistance to citrus greening disease.• Developed optimized sterilization and tissue culture protocols for a variety of citrus cultivars, facilitating efficient plant propagation.• Contributed to the identification of PR genes associated with disease resistance in citrus cultivars through genomic analysis.• This research provided valuable insights into citrus greening management strategies, potentially contributing to the development of disease-resistant cultivars, and improved agricultural practices Show less

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  Pronature Technology Pvt. Limited

  Jan 2013 - Dec 2013

  Assistant Manager – Research and Development

  Led R&D efforts focused on innovative vegetable production and tissue culture technologies, driving breakthroughs in aeroponics and tunnel farming. Managed projects from research to commercialization, significantly contributing to the company’s growth.• Pioneered Pakistan’s first successful commercial potato aeroponic production, achieving up to 300 mini-tubers per plant.• Established and maintained a tissue culture lab, developing propagation protocols for various crops.• Conducted vegetable trials using aeroponic technology, optimizing growth parameters for indoor and greenhouse environments.• Initiated offseason vegetable production through tunnel farming, improving crop yields, and extending the growing season.• Provided regular progress reports to the management, ensuring alignment with research and business objectives. Show less

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  Kanzo Quality Seeds - Evyol Group

  Feb 2014 - Oct 2016

  Team Leader - Technical

  Led a team of 8 researchers and 4 research stations in developing and commercializing new hybrids and varieties, resulting in increased company revenue. Successfully managed multiple research projects, including HTMA & AIP-maize initiatives funded by CIMMYT.• Expanded the company’s products by 22 new hybrids, and expanded the seed production portfolio by 8 crops, including canola, rapeseed, peas, carrot, coriander, spinach, and okra, increasing market share of the company.• Implemented efficient research protocols and seed production SOPs, resulting in a 30% increase in research productivity.• Streamlined crop breeding programs for cotton and wheat, resulting in a 20% increase in breeding efficiency by reduction in timeline of variety development.• Expanded research activities from 20 to 40 crops, contributing to a diversified product portfolio and increased market reach.• Established strong collaborations with universities, national and international research institutions, leading to the acquisition of large numbers of new germplasm accessions and research program liaisons.• Managed a research budget of approximately 50 million PKR, achieving cost-effective research operations. Show less

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  Tri Star Seeds

  Nov 2016 - May 2020

  Technical Manager

  Successfully launched a new hybrid seed business unit from inception, generating revenue within 2 years. Developed and implemented a comprehensive market entry strategy, resulting in the successful commercialization of 50+ hybrid seed varieties.• Built and led a high-performing sales and technical support team of 5 individuals, expanding market reach to all provinces of Pakistan.• Established a robust research farm operation, managing 18 acres for adaptability trials and germplasm evaluation. Successfully secured germplasm from all over the world for product development.• Started product registrations from FSC & RD, facilitating market access for new hybrid varieties.• Developed a five-year strategic plan, driving 200% growth in seed sales and to continuous expansion of product portfolio.• Managed a 50 million PKR budget and achieved approximately 10% cost savings through operational efficiencies. Show less

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  Tara Crop Sciences Pvt Ltd

  May 2020 - Aug 2024

  Senior Manager - Supply Chain and Quality Control

  Spearheaded the optimization of seed production operations, resulting in a 15-20% increase in yield while adhering to stringent FSC & RD quality standards. Successfully implemented a robust quality management system, leading to a 20% reduction in seed lot rejections.• Overhauled seed procurement and supply chain and quality control processes, resulting in 10% reduction in costs, 300% increase in production volume and increased number of crops from 4 to 12 with introduction of multiple crop varieties available for marketing.• Directed a team of 18, integrating cotton ginning into operations, resulting in a 300% increase in production capacity and enhanced employee satisfaction.• Developed and executed strategic plans for improvement in purity and quality assurance and control by establishing standard seed testing laboratory with standard operating procedures resulting in substantial gain in seed quality by reducing contaminations, increasing germination rates and appealing physical look of seed lots.• Managed a budget of 300 million PKR and achieved cost savings of approximately 10% by optimizing operations and procedures. Show less

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  Maxim Agri

  Jan 2025 - now

  Product Manager - Seeds

  Leading the charge in revolutionizing the company’s seed portfolio to meet the demands of modern, high-performance agriculture. I focus on introducing innovative seed solutions that empower farmers, drive sustainable practices, and ensure Maxim Agri’s competitive edge in the market. By fostering global partnerships and leveraging market insights, I align product development with customer needs, delivering measurable value and long-term growth.*. Spearheading the strategic expansion of Maxim Agri's seed portfolio by introducing high-yield, climate-resilient, and market-relevant seed varieties.*. Establishing and nurturing partnerships with global breeding and marketing companies to access cutting-edge seed technologies.*. Leading market research and competitive analysis to identify growth opportunities and shape winning product strategies.*. Ensuring the highest standards of seed quality through rigorous quality control measures and compliance with industry benchmarks.*. Supporting farmers and sales teams with tailored product positioning, technical expertise, and effective go-to-market strategies.*. Driving sustainable agriculture initiatives by promoting resource-efficient, environmentally friendly seed solutions. Show less