Director of Product & Market Development

Job Title: Director of Product & Market Development Department: Product Innovation / Commercial Strategy Reports To: Executive Leadership (e.g., VP of Sales, President) Position SummaryThe Director of Product & Market Development leads the creation and commercialization of innovative fresh produce and fresh-forward products. This role is responsible for identifying consumer trends, developing new product concepts, and guiding them from ideation through commercialization. The Director works cross-functionally with sales, operations, quality assurance, procurement, and retail partners to ensure products meet consumer expectations, regulatory standards, and operational feasibility.The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in fresh foods, produce, and refrigerated deli items, along with a deep understanding of consumer insights, shelf-life management, and retail merchandising strategies. Key ResponsibilitiesProduct Innovation & DevelopmentLead the development of new fresh produce and fresh-forward deli products including salads, snack kits, prepared produce items, and convenience-focused offerings.Identify emerging consumer trends and translate them into viable product concepts and category growth opportunities.Develop product concepts from ideation through commercialization including flavor profiles, ingredient selection, packaging formats, and positioning.Coordinate internal and external teams to bring new products to market efficiently.Consumer & Market TestingDesign and manage consumer testing programs including taste panels, concept validation, and product performance studies.Analyze consumer feedback and market data to refine product attributes and positioning.Conduct competitive benchmarking and retail market analysis to ensure differentiation.Quality, Shelf Life & Food SafetyWork closely with Quality Assurance and Food Safety teams to conduct QA testing and shelf-life validation for new products.Ensure all new products meet regulatory standards, food safety requirements, and retailer specifications.Oversee product trials and validate production scalability.Product Specifications & DocumentationDevelop detailed product specifications including ingredient statements, nutritional profiles, packaging requirements, and production parameters.Ensure accurate documentation for commercialization including product specs, formulations, and operational guidelines.Collaborate with regulatory and QA teams on label compliance and product claims.Sample Development & CommercializationCreate product prototypes and sales samples for internal review, customer presentations, and retail buyers.Support the sales team with product demonstrations, presentations, and innovation storytelling.Manage pilot runs and product launch readiness with operations and supply chain teams.Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with procurement to source ingredients and packaging that meet quality and cost objectives.Coordinate with marketing and sales teams on product positioning, branding, and launch strategies.Partner with operations to ensure manufacturability and efficient production processes. Qualifications3-5+ years of experience in product development, preferably in fresh produce, refrigerated deli, or prepared foods.Strong knowledge of food safety, shelf-life testing, and regulatory requirements.Proven track record of successfully launching food products into retail or foodservice channels.Experience working with major grocery retailers and understanding of fresh category merchandising.Excellent project management, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills. Key CompetenciesConsumer insight & trend identificationProduct innovation and commercializationFresh food and produce expertiseCross-functional leadershipAnalytical and problem-solving skillsRetail category understanding