The Director of Product Development will lead a team of foods scientists specializing in the Food & Beverages and confectionery categories. This role will collaborate closely with the R&D and commercial teams to identify and create consumer-focused, successful products that align with the company's growth objectives. They will oversee a team of product developers and scientists in the United States, ensuring the advancement of brand technical innovation and the delivery of new products.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and manage the applications team, guiding the development and execution of new food products and formulations that meet market demands.
Develop and implement strategic plans for product development, focusing on innovation and continuous improvement across various food categories.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, marketing, and production, to drive projects from concept through commercialization.
Foster a culture of creativity and experimentation, encouraging the team to explore new ideas and approaches to product formulation.
Monitor industry trends and customer insights to inform product development strategies and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Establish and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and internal teams, to ensure alignment and collaboration on product initiatives.
Qualifications:
Experience: A minimum of 10 years in product development, applications, or a related field within the food industry, with a proven track record of successful product launches.
Leadership: Demonstrated experience in managing and developing high-performing teams, with a strong ability to inspire and motivate others.
Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of various food matrices and categories, with a focus on innovation in product development.
Strategic Vision: Ability to think strategically and drive business unit objectives while balancing creativity and operational efficiency.
Customer Focus: Strong customer-facing experience and the ability to translate customer insights into actionable product development strategies.
Education: Masters in Food Science heavily preferred.
What We Offer:
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a forward-thinking organization.
A dynamic and collaborative work environment that values innovation and creativity.
If you are a visionary leader with a passion for food science and product innovation, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
*If you do not meet the above criteria, and have not heard from me within 14 days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful*