Director, Innovation Projects (Product Development) (New York, NY)

Director, Innovation Projects

The Director, Innovation Projects at La Colombe will be responsible for defining and driving the dispensed cold brew vision to build a best in industry product system. Specifically, this role will oversee the strategy, the design, the build and role-out of the company's cold brew dispensing equipment and product assortment. This leader will work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, supply chain, marketing, and sales, to create a superior cold brew customer value proposition. The ideal candidate has a strong background in design or engineering, some experience in product management, a passion for beverages, and a commitment to delivering exceptional, innovative customer experiences.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership : Develop and execute a comprehensive equipment and product strategy for the on-tap product category to drive growth and market differentiation. Monitor industry trends, consumer preferences, and competitive landscapes to identify opportunities for product innovation. Set clear objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for on-tap offerings, ensuring alignment with company goals.

Product Development & Quality Assurance : Collaborate with customer facing teams to understand customer needs and consumer preferences and build in machine specifications. Find, vet and onboard with 3rd party firms to design and build innovative equipment systems. Collaborate with production and R&D teams to create and refine on-tap products. Establish machine standards for quality. Partner with sustainability teams to integrate environmentally friendly practices into the on-tap product lifecycle.

Operational Excellence : Oversee the supply chain and distribution for on-tap dispensing machines. Optimize operational efficiencies for retail team, including machine cleaning, storage, and maintenance. Implement systems for tracking performance metrics like customer experience and usage.

Marketing & Sales Support : Partner with marketing teams to craft compelling brand stories and promotional campaigns for on-tap products. Train sales teams and distributors on the features, benefits, and unique selling points of on-tap beverages. Act as the primary point of contact for key accounts and partners, addressing their needs and fostering long-term relationships.

Leadership & Team Development : Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, fostering collaboration and communication across departments.

Requirements

Education : Bachelor's degree in Engineering, STEM, Industrial Design, Product Management, or a related field; MBA or equivalent experience preferred.

Experience : 10+ years of experience in product design, machine engineering, product strategy, or a similar role, preferably in the food & beverage industry or CPG. Demonstrated experience in developing and launching successful products. Expertise in food service and contract managed services, Food equipment and technology, product development, P&L management, and sales are all a plus.

Skills : Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication and presentation abilities. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects. Familiarity with product lifecycle management, innovation processes, and market research.

About Us

Chobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short : making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 by Hamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk, and creamers Chobani yogurt is America's No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives. Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at cafs nationwide, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages at retail. In 2025, Chobani acquired Daily Harvest, a modern brand offering consumers nutritious, delicious and convenient ready-to-make meals. Chobani uses food as a force for good in the world putting humanity first in everything it does. The company's philanthropic efforts prioritize giving back to its communities and beyond. Chobani manufactures its products in New York, Idaho, Michigan and Australia, and its products are available throughout North America and distributed in Australia and other select markets.

Chobani provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision coverage, disability insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, and tuition reimbursement. To help save for the future, all employees are eligible for a 401k match of 100% on up to 5% of eligible pay. To support growing families, we provide fertility and childcare assistance, and 12 weeks of parental leave at full pay after six months of continuous employment. In addition, we provide wellness resources which include an employee assistance program, fitness discounts, a wellness reimbursement, on-site gym access (certain locations) and a monthly wellness newsletter to connect you with resources and timely information. We offer various types of paid time off including : 120 hours of paid time off, 11 holidays, paid volunteer time off and military service leave. Compensation Range : $144,000.00 - $216,000.00, plus bonus.