Director of Research & Product Innovation

Director, Technical Services - Research & Product Innovation Reports to: PresidentCompensation: $115,000–$125,000 base + up to 20% annual bonus tied to individual and company performanceWork Structure: Primarily onsite with Friday work-from-home flexibility and additional hybrid options after onboardingThe OpportunityOur client is seeking a technically grounded, innovation-minded leader to step into a highly visible Director of Technical Services role. This position sits at the intersection of science, product innovation, and operational execution, with a clear mandate to strengthen and scale the organization’s R&D engine while maintaining sound quality and regulatory discipline.This is a role for someone who brings a strong academic foundation in Food Science or a related discipline, paired with progressive, hands-on leadership experience in product development. The right leader will be energized by building, refining, and launching products that perform in the real world. They will understand how to translate technical knowledge into commercial success.In simple terms:Heavy on R&D leadership.Quality oversight that supports innovation, not slows it down.A seat at the table with executive leadership and the ability to shape the future product pipeline.What This Leader Will OwnProduct Innovation and DevelopmentDrive the full product lifecycle from concept through commercialization and post-launch optimizationTranslate customer needs, regulatory requirements, and market trends into viable, scalable product solutionsLead formulation, trials, and commercialization efforts with a practical, solutions-oriented mindsetTechnical and Strategic LeadershipBuild and execute a forward-looking R&D strategy aligned with company growth objectivesProvide visible, hands-on leadership to the technical team, setting the tone for accountability, curiosity, and continuous improvementPartner closely with Operations, Sales, and Marketing to ensure technical decisions support business performanceQuality and Compliance FrameworkMaintain strong quality systems that enable innovation while protecting product integrity and regulatory complianceServe as the SQF practitioner and oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the SQF systemEnsure product registrations, documentation, and approvals are completed accurately and efficientlyWhat Sets the Right Candidate ApartBachelor’s degree in Food Science, Nutrition, or a closely related technical field7+ years of progressive experience across R&D and technical leadership roles within food or consumer product manufacturingDemonstrated success leading product development initiatives from idea to commercializationStrong command of regulatory requirements, food safety standards, and quality systemsA leadership style that blends technical credibility with the ability to coach, influence, and drive resultsWhy This Role MattersThis is not a maintenance role.It is a build, refine, and lead role for someone who enjoys seeing their work move from the lab to the production floor to the customer.The President is looking for a trusted technical partner. Someone who can think strategically, act decisively, and elevate the organization’s innovation capability over time. For the right leader, this is a chance to make a meaningful impact while continuing to grow professionally in an environment that values both science and execution.