Director of Product Development

Job Description

Job Description

Fresh Express is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Product Development to lead our Research & Development team at the Fresh Express Innovation Center, a world-class R&D facility located in Streamwood, Illinois. This role will be responsible for driving innovation, renovation, and cost savings while ensuring technical excellence across all phases of product development - from concept through commercialization.

As a strategic leader, you will oversee a talented team of developers and a corporate chef, while collaborating closely with cross-functional partners across operations, marketing, and supply chain. The ideal candidate is a proven R&D leader with expertise in produce processing, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to balance creativity with scientific rigor.

About the Fresh Express Innovation Center :

The Fresh Express Innovation Center is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to shaping the future of fresh foods. Located in the plant, it is equipped with sensory testing spaces and culinary development kitchens, the center provides the tools and collaborative environment needed to bring breakthrough products from concept to shelf quickly and effectively.

Key Responsibilities :

• Proactively propose and lead new product ideas and methods to grow the Fresh Express innovation pipeline.
• Support customer visits to the Innovation Center to sell in new products and co-collaborate to create new items together.
• Drive the development and commercialization of new products, product improvements, and cost-savings initiatives working with cross functional partners on project teams.
• Lead bench-top formulation through line testing and full-scale production across multiple facilities.
• Conduct and oversee shelf-life evaluations for new products and ingredients, ensuring microbiological safety, quality and provide recommendations for correct oxygen transmission for new product packaging.
• Improve existing products through formula optimization, nutritional enhancements, and cost reductions.
• Develop robust Master Recipes and processes adaptable to plant production environments and ensure raw materials usage is optimized to deliver best quality at target cost
• Collaborate with operations teams to ensure efficient manufacturability and consistent product quality.
• Oversee development of accurate finished product specifications, ingredient statements and nutritional facts panels.
• Research and integrate new flavors, ingredients, and technologies into product concepts.
• Manage resources, timelines, and budgets for multiple projects and platforms.
• Present technical recommendations and updates to leadership and cross-functional partners.
• Travel as needed to Fresh Express facilities to support development and commercialization.
• Manage and prioritize innovation and project support work with key supplier partners.
• Support finished product photography and recipe development for new and existing products.

Qualifications :

Additional Requirements :

Direct Reports :

Other Information :

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed, as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

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