Director Research & Development

Director of Research & Development

At Spindrift, we are making every beverage a positive force of nature. Founded in 2010, we believe the best flavors come directly from nature. That's why every Spindrift beverage is made the hard waywith real squeezed fruit, never from concentrate. From sourcing the best-tasting fruit globally to maintaining a carefully honed manufacturing process, we believe in doing things the hard way, the intentional way, the better albeit more challenging way, the right way because, in the end, it's worth it. Spindrift sparkling water is available nationwide, and Spindrift Spiked and Spindrift SODA is available in select markets. We are also a proud member of 1% for the planet, donating to environmental causes. Spindrift is headquartered in Newton, MA.

Spindrift Ventures is the innovation lab within Spindrift, dedicated to developing bold new initiatives that drive long-term growth. We explore emerging trends, untapped markets, and transformative product conceptsworking cross-functionally to rapidly test, validate, and scale ideas that extend beyond our core business. We move fast, experiment often, and make data-informed decisions with creativity and consumer obsession at the core.

The Director of Research & Development will lead the formulation and technical development of new beverage concepts that align with Spindrift Ventures' strategic priorities. This role bridges the world of innovation and product sciencetranslating bold ideas into best-in-class liquid experiences.

You will oversee our in-house R&D lab and a small, highly skilled team of liquid development specialists, that manage both our core and emerging liquid development. You'll work closely with Ventures leadership to opine on and execute the product roadmap, ensuring every new concept meets our standards for taste, quality, and authenticity while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in beverage.

This role is both strategic and hands-onideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of creativity, science, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of beverage formulation and product development within Spindrift Ventures.
• Manage, mentor, and develop two R&D specialists focused on liquid innovation; core and emerging.
• Oversee the daily operation and long-term vision of the in-house R&D lab.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners (Strategy, Operations) to ensure product concepts deliver on consumer and business objectives.
• Translate innovation strategies into executable development briefs and prototypes.
• Establish development timelines, testing protocols, and quality standards.
• Evaluate new ingredients, technologies, and processes that can elevate Spindrift's beverage portfolio.
• Partner with external suppliers, co-packers, and innovation partners as needed to scale products from concept to commercialization.
• Contribute to the creation and evolution of the Spindrift Ventures product roadmap.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality standards.

What Success Looks Like