Role Overview for VP Food Innovation & Product Development – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a forward-thinking and rapidly growing leader in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) food industry. Our client, based in the vibrant culinary hub of Chicago, IL, is on a mission to redefine the future of food by creating delicious, innovative, and sustainable products that delight consumers. They have built a reputation for quality and creativity, and they are seeking a transformative executive to join their senior leadership team as the Vice President of Food Innovation & Product Development. This is a career-defining opportunity for a strategic and hands-on leader to steer the engine of a growth-oriented company.
The VP of Food Innovation & Product Development is the chief architect of the company’s product pipeline and the guardian of its culinary soul. This executive will be responsible for the entire product lifecycle, from blue-sky ideation and concept development to commercialization and post-launch optimization. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, this individual will lead a talented team of food scientists, chefs, and R&D technicians, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and relentless curiosity. The ideal candidate is not just a scientist or a chef, but a business strategist with a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and operational realities. You will be instrumental in translating consumer insights and emerging food trends into commercially viable, brand-aligned products that capture market share and drive profitable growth. This role requires a unique blend of scientific rigor, culinary artistry, and executive-level business acumen to build and execute a multi-year innovation strategy that solidifies our client’s position as an industry pioneer.
Key Responsibilities of VP Food Innovation & Product Development – Chicago, IL
Strategic Innovation Leadership
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-range product innovation strategy and roadmap that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, brand positioning, and financial targets. Champion a culture of innovation that encourages creative thinking, calculated risk-taking, and continuous improvement across the organization.
End-to-End Product Development
Oversee the entire new product development (NPD) process, from initial concept generation, feasibility analysis, and prototyping to benchtop formulation, scale-up, and successful commercialization. Implement and refine a disciplined stage-gate process to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Team Leadership and Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of R&D professionals, including food scientists, research chefs, and technicians. Foster a collaborative and inspiring environment that attracts, retains, and grows top-tier talent. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and empower the team to achieve excellence.
Market and Consumer Insight Integration
Stay at the forefront of global food science and technology trends, consumer preferences, culinary movements, and competitive activity. Partner with the Marketing and Sales teams to translate deep consumer insights into actionable product concepts and compelling value propositions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key partner to the executive leadership team and collaborate seamlessly with Marketing, Sales, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, and Finance. Ensure alignment on project priorities, resource allocation, and go-to-market strategies to guarantee successful product launches.
Technical and Scientific Oversight
Provide expert guidance on all technical aspects of product development, including ingredient functionality, formulation, processing technology, shelf-life stability, and sensory evaluation. Ensure all products are developed in compliance with food safety regulations and quality standards.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring efficient allocation of capital and human resources. Drive cost-saving initiatives through ingredient optimization, process improvements, and formulation efficiencies without compromising product quality or consumer experience.
External Relationship Management
Build and maintain strong relationships with key external partners, including ingredient suppliers, co-manufacturers, academic institutions, and technology providers. Leverage these partnerships to accelerate innovation and gain access to new technologies and capabilities.
Requirements for the VP Food Innovation & Product Development – Chicago, IL
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Chemistry, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s or Ph.D. is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in food and beverage product development within a CPG environment. At least 7-10 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity, with a proven track record of managing and developing large, multi-disciplinary R&D teams.
Proven Track Record of Innovation
Demonstrated success in leading the development and commercialization of multiple successful product lines from concept to launch. Experience managing a complex and fast-moving product pipeline is essential.
Technical Expertise
Deep and broad technical knowledge across multiple food categories. Expertise in formulation, ingredient technology, food processing, sensory science, and quality assurance protocols. Strong understanding of regulatory affairs (FDA, USDA).
Business Acumen
Exceptional strategic thinking and financial acumen. Ability to connect R&D initiatives directly to business outcomes, including revenue growth, profitability, and market share. Experience with P&L management and budget oversight is required.
Leadership Skills
A dynamic and inspirational leader with exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Ability to influence and build consensus across all levels of the organization. A true player-coach who can guide strategy while also rolling up their sleeves.
Passion for Food
A genuine passion for food, culinary arts, and consumer trends. An insatiable curiosity and a creative mindset are non-negotiable.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Chicago, IL, with a willingness to travel as needed (approximately 20-25%).
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. This includes:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentive plan.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents. Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company-paid holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuous learning, including conferences, certifications, and executive coaching.
Additional Perks
Employee product discounts, company-sponsored wellness programs, and regular team-building events in the vibrant city of Chicago.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary food innovation leader ready to make a significant impact on a growing company, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy.
JRG Partners specializes in placing top-tier talent within the food and beverage industry. To learn more about our expertise and explore other opportunities, please visit our Foodtech Recruiters Practice Area page. We look forward to connecting with you.
