Director of Product Development

We are currently seeking a Director of Product Development in Idaho Falls, ID.

Full responsibility for the New Product Development function:

• Develop a lifecycle plan for current and new varieties which maximizes the success and profitability of a variety but provides triggers for an orderly retirement of a variety before customer listings are lost.
• Develop a robust stream of new items which can replace varieties entering the end of life phase.  Ensure products recommended for development have a consumer rationale based on changing consumption patterns and which meet or exceed profitability hurdles.
• Work with Sales and Marketing to establish branding, positioning, packaging and promotion for the new varieties.

Reports to: Co-Chief Operating Officer

Qualifications:

• B.S. in business, finance or marketing or equivalent applicable business experience. New product development and project management experience – from conceptualization to commercialization, minimum 5 years experience
• Strong analytical, database and computer skills required including Word, Excel and Powerpoint.
• Attention to details, time management and ability to coordinate the activities of outside vendors.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, including written and verbal. Must be prepared and capable of making customer sales calls.
• Self-motivated Team Player – with results oriented attitude and creative background.
• Strong interpersonal skills able to inspire and motivate a team of direct reports and personnel from other disciplines to achieving the new product goal and vision.

Duties & Responsibilities:
Planning and Financial:

• Team Leader on the development of the Potandon business strategy related to new products.
• Contribute to annual planning projections.
• Responsible for setting and hitting profitability targets for new items.
• Responsible for achieving annual business goals as agreed.
• Develop and approve budgets, monitor spending and approve payments for product purchases and FME for related company functions.

Product Development:

• Key driver of the product development process at Potandon.
• Liaise with key operational personnel to determine the optimum production system for the new product.
• By working with the Quality Assurance and Food Safety team determine the finished product spec to meet the consumer need for which the product is being developed.
• Work with the Marketing VP to establish the optimum marketing program to maximize the market potential of the product.
• Design and develop packaging for new products with assistance of operational team.
• Lead team of product development people that do not all directly work for this position but support it.
• Develop plan to bring all new products to market with support from Sales team.
• Phase the launch of the product based on the agronomic expertise needed to grow the variety.

Human Resources:

• Provide leadership, direction, training, and development for all direct reports.
• Approve all salary administration activities.
• Enforce all HR policies and practices for Company employees.

Note: Flexibility and acceptance to job change.  Duties of this position will continue to evolve over time with certain additions, changes, and deletions in responsibilities.