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