Product Development Specialist, CPG
The Product Development Specialist, CPG will lead the strategic development, sourcing, and commercialization of new products by bridging innovation and R&D to bring ideas from concept to launch. This role ensures that creative concepts are translated into technically viable, operationally executable, and commercially differentiated product solutions. The ideal candidate is a technically driven innovation leader with strong sourcing acumen and a deep understanding of product development lifecycles. They will manage innovation projects end-to-end from early concept validation and supplier engagement through scale-up, commercialization, and post-launch optimization.
Key Responsibilities
- Bridge innovation and R&D to turn creative concepts into technically viable, market-ready products.
- Lead end-to-end innovation projects from concept through launch with a focus on sourcing new suppliers, technologies, and materials to drive differentiation and efficiency.
- Build and manage relationships with key partners, including suppliers, co-manufacturers, and formulators, to strengthen the innovation pipeline.
- Oversee commercialization timelines and ensure cross-functional alignment across R&D, Operations, and Marketing.
- Own technical feasibility assessments, balancing creativity with practical execution across processing, sourcing, and scale-up.
- Collaborate with Quality, Regulatory, and Procurement teams to ensure compliance, safety, and supply chain readiness.
- Serve as the technical owner for product formulations, maintaining documentation, version control, and key learnings.
- Evaluate operational feasibility early in development, including manufacturing, sourcing, packaging, and distribution.
- Lead packaging and merchandising development (displays, signage, kits packaging) and updates to existing products (claims, packaging, regulatory, etc.) with input from the Sales team.
- Partner with Operations and Quality Assurance to execute scale-up plans, line trials, and production procedures.
- Lead sourcing negotiations for innovation-related materials, ensuring favorable terms and supply reliability.
- Scan the market for emerging technologies and supply opportunities to fuel future innovation initiatives.
Education, Experience, & Skills
Qualifications :
Bachelor's Degree35 years of relevant experience in product development, formulation, or commercialization within a CPG or regulated environment (consumer products, outdoors, natural or plant-based ingredients preferred).Proven experience managing product development projects from concept through commercialization, including supplier / contractor management, scalability evaluation, manufacturing / packaging interface, and launch.Strong project management and cross-functional teamwork capabilities.Experience within a CPG companyExperience working with EPA regulated products preferred, FDA is nice to have.The ideal candidate should have :
Strong organization and documentation skillsThe kind of confidence that says they are open to taking risks, trying new things, and open to new ideasA team player mindset who is willing to jump in wherever and whenever (position may require occasional, brief work on weekends)The ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced "start-up" environmentThe ability to take an idea to an executable, creative deliverableA knack for organization, time management, and prioritizing tasksExcellent interpersonal communication skills and people development mindsetA positive, "get it done" attitude.Willingness to travel (1015%)About Murphy's Naturals
Murphy's Naturals, headquartered in the vibrant city of Raleigh, NC, is not just a company; we're a community of passionate outdoor enthusiasts on a mission to make a positive impact. Fueled by our mission to celebrate nature and inspire good through quality natural products, we're more than just a brand we're a force for change.
At Murphy's Naturals, we craft innovative outdoor products using responsibly sourced, plant-based ingredients. We believe that every choice we make, from the materials we use to our daily operations, shapes the world we live in. As a Certified B Corporation and proud members of 1% For The Planet, we embrace the responsibility that comes with our success. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to doing good. From tirelessly researching sustainable supply chain opportunities to pitching in on a bustling packing day, we go above and beyond. We refuse to settle for 'good enough' because we believe in the boundless potential for good in everything we do for people, the planet, and our products.