HEAD OF PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Our client is an ambitious, innovative startup of passionate people who are joining forces to create a new category of non-alcoholic drinks . Through their brand and products, they want to celebrate courage and exploration . We are looking for a leader who will guide the core of Product Development. About the job: Strategic Product Development Transform visionary ideas into tangible products by investigating and introducing new raw materials and botanicals, blending and transforming them into incredibly tasty alcohol-free liquids. Collaborate constantly with the Research team and external collaborators to envision and test innovative processes and technologies that will deliver recipes with unparalleled flavor and quality. Drive the development of cutting-edge, shelf-stable formulations , meticulously testing each new product to ensure the perfect balance of flavor, aroma, and shelf life . Collaborate closely with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients that align with our mission of giving new dignity to forgotten, undervalued plants, roots, and herbs. Oversee multiple R&D projects simultaneously , ensuring milestones, deadlines, and budgets are met. Build and nurture collaborations with chefs and sommeliers , including the development of new recipes. Establish clear KPIs to measure project success, from ideation to final product launch. Customer-Centric Market Analysis Engage directly with our key customers (chefs, sommeliers, private consumers) to understand their needs and desires by organizing periodic panels. Work with the sales & marketing team to create a constant feedback loop from the market. Integrate customer insights and market trends analysis into ongoing product improvements and future developments. Champion an Innovative Experimentation Culture Act as a bridge between Product Development, Research, Production, Sales, and Marketing , ensuring strategic alignment across departments and collaborating in educating the team about tasting, botanicals, and fermentations. Encourage a culture of experimentation , where bold ideas are encouraged, tested, and iterated upon. The ideal candidate will have the following skills, knowledge, and experiences: Scientific degree: food technologies, microbiology, biology, oenology, etc. Minimum 5 years experience – ideally in the R&D department of a food company. Experience with beer, wine, yogurt, drinks, or kombucha is an advantage. Strong interest and passion for gastronomy. Proficiency in data analysis to interpret research results and make informed decisions. Entrepreneurial spirit, explorative, pragmatic, and independent. Team-player and great communicator with strong Project Management skills enabling the coordination of complex projects and multiple stakeholders. We believe in the power of diversity, so you will find yourself working with people from international backgrounds, culturally diverse, and with an inclusive mindset. Proficiency in English is a must. Italian is a plus, but not required. Willingness to work in Trentino. Location: Trentino (North of Trento) Seniority level: Not Applicable Employment type: Full-time Job function: Other Industries: Food and Beverage Retail J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: trentino-alto-adige, IT

Posted Date: 6/16/2025