Product Development Manager - Baked Goods

Role Overview

The Product Development Manager leads the creation and rollout of innovative bakery items and product extensions, supporting an ongoing pipeline of new concepts. This position combines practical formulation work with large-scale production support, including launch execution and post-launch refinement. The successful candidate will possess deep expertise in bakery science, a strong understanding of manufacturing environments, and the ability to transform ideas into commercially viable, high-quality products.

This is a highly practical, production-focused role requiring in-depth knowledge of baking techniques, raw materials, and equipment, alongside strong project coordination and cross-functional collaboration capabilities. The role also supports and aligns with the organization's broader strategic principles and culture.

PLEASE NOTE, THIS ROLE IS LOCATED IN PHILADELPHIA AND WILL REQUIRE CANDIDATES TO BE BASED ON-SITE. IF YOU DO NOT LIVE IN THE REGION AND REQUIRE RELOCATION, A RELOCATION PAYMENT WILL BE OFFERED TO HELP FACILITATE THE MOVE.

Key Responsibilities

Innovation & Product Development

• Convert customer ideas and briefs into clear development plans, outlining timelines, formulation approaches, and feasibility.
• Drive the end-to-end development of new bakery products, from initial concept through to full-scale production.
• Expand existing product lines in alignment with innovation strategies.
• Develop and refine bench samples with a focus on scalability and consistent manufacturing performance.
• Perform hands-on formulation work, including mixing, baking, scaling, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain thorough and accurate records of formulations, trials, and modifications.

Scale-Up & Commercialization

• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to transition products from lab to production.
• Support factory trials, product launches, and initial production runs.
• Identify and resolve formulation or process issues during scale-up.
• Define and validate product specifications such as texture, moisture, weight, and sensory qualities.
• Ensure adherence to food safety and quality standards.

Customer & Sample Support

• Manage and deliver product samples for internal and external stakeholders within required timelines.
• Prepare high-quality samples that accurately represent production capabilities.
• Contribute technical expertise during customer interactions and presentations when needed.

Product Improvement

• Track product performance after launch to identify opportunities for enhancement.
• Work cross-functionally to improve quality, shelf life, cost efficiency, and overall consumer experience.
• Conduct competitive analysis and drive ongoing product improvements.

Laboratory & Technical Support

• Assist senior technical leadership with daily lab operations and prioritization.
• Support ingredient testing, supplier assessments, and functionality studies.
• Maintain lab organization, manage ingredient inventory, and ensure compliance with safety practices.
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Bakery Science, or a related discipline (required).
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in bakery product development, ideally within a commercial manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of ingredient functionality, including flours, sweeteners, fats, emulsifiers, enzymes, leavening agents, and inclusions.
• Proven ability to collaborate across teams and influence outcomes.
• Experience with scaling products from development to full production.
• Ability to manage multiple projects effectively in a fast-moving environment.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• Practical, hands-on formulation experience is essential.