Manager Product Development

Role overview

Compensation

• Typical annual salary range is $78,880 to $103,530; the offer depends on job-related factors and internal equity.
• Eligible for a non-discretionary short-term incentive plan bonus based on individual and company performance.

Work location

• Work location is Metro Ontario at 5559 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario.
• The posting identifies the role as hybrid.

Responsibilities

• Lead private-label product development from concept through commercialization, aligned with category objectives, brand standards, quality expectations, and regulations.
• Partner with Business Managers on category strategy and initiative priorities; maintain project updates in PLM systems and prepare specifications for sourcing and tenders.
• Conduct sensory and technical evaluations; recommend formulations, ingredients, claims, attributes, and preparation methods.
• Review and approve product specifications, formulations, technical documentation, and artwork; investigate formulation issues during production or supplier changes.
• Coordinate suppliers and internal teams to deliver quality products on time and on budget and build supplier relationships.
• Develop and test recipes; conduct market assessments, competitive benchmarking, product evaluations, assortment reviews, and trend research.
• Attend industry trade shows, supplier meetings, and manufacturing facilities to identify trends, technologies, and product opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Food Science, Nutrition, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• 5–7 years of food product development experience, preferably in private label, and/or food manufacturing.
• Knowledge of Canadian food regulations, including CFIA standards of identity, manufacturing processes, and quality systems.
• Experience managing ingredient and finished product specifications, development critical paths, timelines, and milestones.
• Experience with sensory evaluation across food categories; working knowledge of food safety principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; SAP and PLM or PPM systems are assets.
• Valid Class G driver's licence and access to a vehicle.

Skills and competencies

• Strong project management, organization, attention to detail, analytical thinking, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Strong verbal and written communication and ability to collaborate with and influence cross-functional teams.
• Able to manage multiple priorities independently in a fast-paced environment; proactive, results-driven, and committed to continuous improvement.

Employment

• This is an existing permanent full-time vacancy.