Position Summary

The Product Innovation Manager will lead the ideation, development, and commercialization of new and enhanced forage products and solutions. This individual will work cross-functionally with marketing, sales, R& D, operations, and supply chain teams to drive product innovation aligned with customer needs, market trends, and the company’s strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end product development initiatives from concept through launch.
• Conduct market research, competitive analysis, and customer insights to inform product strategy.
• Translate consumer and industry trends into innovative forage product solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (marketing, operations, 3^rd party vendors) to develop product specifications, packaging, pricing, and positioning strategies.
• Manage product development timelines, budgets, and milestones to ensure timely and successful execution.
• Partner with Sales and Marketing to support go-to-market strategies, launch plans, and promotional activities.
• Continuously monitor product performance and customer feedback to identify opportunities for improvement or expansion.
• Evaluate new technologies, ingredients, and processing techniques to enhance product offerings.
• Ensure all new product initiatives meet regulatory and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, Business, Food Science, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in product development, product management, or innovation – preferably in animal nutrition, agriculture, or CPG.
• Strong knowledge of forage products, animal feeding practices, and equine/livestock industries is highly desirable.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing multiple product development projects.
• Demonstrated ability to bring products from concept to commercialization.
• Excellent project management, analytical, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in market analysis, trend forecasting, and product lifecycle management.
• Passion for animal wellness and agricultural innovation.

Professional Conduct:

Each employee of Standlee Premium Western Forage has a responsibility to know, to understand and to abide by Workplace Professional Standards of Conduct. Professional Conduct includes: Customer Service, Courtesy, Ethics, Safety, Teamwork, Responsibility, Accountability, Confidentiality, and Professionalism.

Travel Requirements

20-35% travel - domestic.

Experience

• 5 year(s): Product Development