Director of Product Development

Pets+People Consumer Products; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Pets + People Consumer Products in New York City is seeking a Director of Product Development to oversee formulated categories in both pet and people spaces. This leadership role reports to the Senior Director of Product Development and requires shaping product strategy, driving customer-focused innovation, and establishing development processes.

The role is hybrid, with three days in the office. You will lead a team of product managers, manage end-to-end development from concept to mass

Qualifications

• 5-7 years' experience in developing liquid formulations for household or pet products.
• 10+ years in consumer product development with leadership experience.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to travel internationally.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of product managers across consumer categories.
• Maintain a comprehensive new product launch calendar.
• Oversee end-to-end product development, from concept to mass production.
• Define formulation standards and approval processes.
• Review formulas for performance, quality, safety, and cost.
• Set product claims and substantiation standards.
• Align customer-focused development with profitability goals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on go-to-market strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Strategic thinking

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Team building

Job description

At Pets + People, we make tails wag and customers smile with products brought to market through strategic licensing and innovation. Our brands make everyday life fresh, fun, and user-friendly for the whole family.

Our team of over 80 dedicated employees is headquartered in New York City with both national and global support. With our background, experience, and network, we are uniquely positioned to extend the reach of any brand to a new market.

“We’ve been a pioneer in licensing since 2008, translating favorite brands into practical "pet" applications. In 2014, we expanded our vision into new markets within the "people" sector. Now, we are leveraging our long track record of success and applying it both to pets + people. “ – Steven Shweky, Top Dog

Learn more about our capabilities at www.petspeople.com

Position Summary:

The Director of Product Development is a position responsible for overseeing product development of the formulated categories in both the pet and people spaces. Reporting to the Senior Director of Product Development, this leadership role is instrumental in shaping our product strategy, driving customer-focused innovation, and establishing processes related to formulated product development. The role is a hybrid role, requiring three days per week in the office.

What You'll Do:

• Lead a team of product managers in various consumer product categories, such as household and pet supplies.
• Assemble and maintain a comprehensive new product launch calendar to ensure timely delivery and market competitiveness.
• Oversee the end-to-end product development cycle, including concept creation, prototyping, and mass production.
• Own formulation standards and approvals by setting clear requirements for how products are developed.
• Review and approve all formulas for performance, quality, safety, and cost expectations.
• Establish standards and processes for product claims and substantiation.
• Manage customer-focused product development strategies that align with the company’s mission and profitability goals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop go-to-market strategies for new products.

Who You Are:

• Minimum 5-7 years' experience in developing liquid formulations for household cleaning, personal care, or pet grooming products.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in product development, preferably in the consumer products sector.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to manage and inspire teams.
• Proficient in project management software and tools.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Must be willing to travel internationally, as needed.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Join us in shaping the future of consumer products, one innovation at a time!