Product Innovation Director
Location: Brooklyn / Remote
About Simply
Simply is a design-led, ingredient-focused confectionery brand redefining everyday treats. From our roots in plastic-free gum, we’ve expanded into mints, candy, chocolate, and functional products — all grounded in unusually simple ingredients and a great consumer experience.
We are seeking a Product Innovation Director to lead the creation of new products and drive our next phase of growth.
Role Overview
The Product Innovation Director will own the end-to-end innovation pipeline — from concept through commercialization. This leader will translate consumer insights, trends, and brand strategy into compelling, commercially viable products.
This is a highly cross-functional, strategic, and hands-on role at the center of Simply’s future growth.
Key Responsibilities
Innovation Strategy & Pipeline
- Lead the product innovation roadmap aligned with company growth goals
- Identify whitespace opportunities across confectionery & functional categories
- Drive concept development grounded in consumer insight and brand positioning
Product Development
- Own product creation from idea → formulation → testing → launch
- Partner with R&D, suppliers, and co-manufacturers
- Balance taste, ingredients, cost, scalability, and margin targets
Consumer & Trend Insights
- Translate trends into actionable product opportunities
- Evaluate competitive landscape and emerging categories
- Lead product testing, sensory work, and consumer feedback loops
Commercialization & Execution
- Partner with operations to ensure manufacturability & quality
- Work with sales & marketing on positioning and launch strategy
- Manage timelines, stage gates, and launch readiness
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Serve as the bridge between brand, sales, and operations
- Drive alignment on priorities and resource allocation
- Influence decision-making with data and consumer rationale
Ideal Candidate Profile
Experience
- 7–12+ years in CPG product innovation / R&D / product development
- Experience in confectionery, snacks, functional products, or adjacent categories
- Proven track record of launching successful consumer products
Capabilities
- Strong commercial instincts (not just R&D-driven)
- Deep understanding of ingredients, formulation, and manufacturing realities
- Ability to balance creativity with cost & margin discipline
- Highly strategic yet comfortable being hands-on
Mindset
- Consumer-obsessed and trend-aware
- Builder mentality — thrives in entrepreneurial environments
- Strong taste & product sensibility
- Comfortable navigating ambiguity and rapid iteration