Director of Product Development

Job Description

Job Description

Description :

At izzio Artisan Bakery, we believe great bread starts with great ingredients—and great people. As the #1 selling and fastest-growing sourdough brand, we craft our bread in small batches using time-honored techniques, simple ingredients, and a passion for quality. Naturally fermented and incredibly delicious, izzio is real artisan sourdough. Our team is at the heart of everything we do—and a key ingredient in our success.

We are seeking an innovative and strategic Director of Product Development with a strong background in food manufacturing, packaging, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate is capable of turning consumer insights into successful products that meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance. This role requires a balance of fast-paced visionary thinking and hands-on execution, with proven experience leading cross-functional teams and driving projects from concept to commercialization.

Position Summary

The Director of Product Development is responsible for all sales and market driven bread development and leading the strategy and execution of new breads from concept through commercialization. This role oversees all aspects of formulation, and packaging while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory and food safety requirements. The Director will partner with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, cost-effective, and compliant breads that meet consumer demand and align with company growth objectives.

Essential Functions

Product Innovation & Development

• Lead the end-to-end product development process, from R&D to commercialization.
• Drive consumer-focused innovation while ensuring manufacturability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Optimize and establish enhanced cross-functional process for R&D development and commercialization.
• Oversee testing, formulation trials, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life studies.

Packaging Development & Optimization

Regulatory & Compliance Oversight

Cross-Functional Leadership

Continuous Improvement

Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

Requirements :

Position Requirements

Core Skills

Critical Thinking - Demonstrates strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Strong Communication - Clear writing, internal and external communication abilities.

Organized & Detail-Oriented - Ability to juggle multiple projects and timelines efficiently.

Collaborative Mindset - Comfortable working with cross-functional teams.

Adaptability & Agility - Thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

Commitment to quality - You recognize that the customer experience is paramount, quality is non-negotiable, and cutting corners is never an option.

Location : Louisville / Thornton – Partially hybrid available after completion of initial training period

Reports to : COO

Direct reports : 2

Position Close Date : 12 / 17 / 2025

Compensation is based on the level of experience, other relevant experience, and requirements of the position. The range provided serves only as a guideline and does not automatically qualify all candidates (internal or external) for the high end of the range.

Base Salary Range : $145,000 to $175,000

At izzio, we believe great work starts with happy, supported people. That’s why we offer a comprehensive and thoughtful benefits package designed to help you thrive inside and outside of work. From competitive pay to career growth opportunities, we’re committed to supporting you.

Our Benefits Include :

At izzio, you’re more than just an employee, you’re a key ingredient in our success. We value craftsmanship, teamwork, and innovation, and we’re proud to create breads that bring joy to our customers every day. When you join our team, you become part of a community that respects your contributions, supports your growth, and celebrates the art of baking together.