VP of Product Development
About the Role
We are seeking a Vice President of Product Development to lead end-to-end innovation for a growing consumer packaged goods company. This executive will own the product development lifecycle-from insight-driven ideation through commercialization-ensuring products are differentiated, scalable, and aligned with brand, margin, and growth objectives.
The ideal candidate brings a strong blend of consumer insight, technical development, cross-functional leadership, and operational execution, with a proven track record of launching successful CPG products at scale.
Key Responsibilities
Product & Innovation Strategy
- Define and lead the product development strategy aligned to company growth, brand positioning, and portfolio priorities
- Translate consumer insights, market trends, and commercial needs into actionable product roadmaps
- Own innovation pipelines across line extensions, renovations, and net-new product platforms
End-to-End Product Development
- Oversee all phases of development, including concepting, formulation, packaging, testing, scale-up, and launch
- Partner closely with R&D, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Sales to ensure seamless commercialization
- Drive speed-to-market while maintaining best-in-class product quality and compliance
Team Leadership
- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing product development and R&D organization
- Establish clear development processes, milestone gates, and performance standards
- Foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement
Cross-Functional & External Collaboration
- Serve as a key executive partner to Marketing, Sales, Finance, and Operations
- Collaborate with external partners including co-manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, packaging vendors, and consultants
- Support strategic initiatives such as cost optimization, sustainability, and product renovation
Financial & Operational Accountability
- Own product development budgets, cost targets, and margin deliverables
- Balance innovation ambition with operational feasibility and supply chain realities
- Ensure regulatory, food safety, and quality standards are met across all products
Qualifications
Required
- 12+ years of progressive experience in product development and innovation within consumer packaged goods
- Prior leadership at the Director or VP level managing multi-disciplinary development teams
- Demonstrated success launching products from concept through large-scale commercialization
- Strong understanding of formulation, packaging, manufacturing, and supply chain constraints
- Excellent executive-level communication and cross-functional influence skills
Preferred
- Experience in food, beverage, beauty, personal care, or health & wellness CPG categories
- Background working with co-manufacturers and complex external vendor networks
- MBA or advanced technical degree (Food Science, Chemistry, Engineering, or related field)
What We Offer
- Competitive executive compensation and performance-based incentives
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- Flexible work environment
- Opportunity to shape the future of a growing, consumer-driven brand
FAQs
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