Product Development Director jobs in Michigan

Uckele Health & Nutrition Inc.

Founded in 1962, Uckele Health & Nutrition, Inc. is an industry-leading global contract manufacturing company that specializes in the production of a wide variety of nutritional supplements and health products. Our headquarters is based in Blissfield, Michigan, and we operate under a strict regulatory framework to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety.

We are well-recognized for our top-quality formulations in capsules, powders, soft chews, pellets, pastes, liquids, and topical products. From nutritional supplements for humans to performance products for equine and pet nutrition, Uckele is committed to scientific innovation, superior ingredients, and advanced manufacturing processes.

At Uckele, making people and their animals healthier is our core passion. We value the health and wellness of our consumers and employees, which is reflected in our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. We have established a robust reputation for reliability and integrity, and we are passionate about continuously expanding our knowledge and capabilities to exceed our customers' expectations.

We are dedicated to creating a workplace that fosters innovation, teamwork, and continuous learning. Here at Uckele, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. We offer a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment, along with opportunities for career growth and professional development.

We are constantly looking for dedicated professionals with a passion for health, wellness, and innovation to join our dynamic team. If you share our commitment to excellence and are ready to make a difference in the health and wellness industry, we would love to hear from you.

Position Title: Director of Product Development FLSA: Exempt

Reports To: Chief Operations Officer

Scope: Direct the development of new products and processes by collaborating with sales, operations, and conferring with customers, leading direct reports, and providing support for process changes and corrective action.

Essential Duties:

· Clarify and negotiate customer requirements, quote new business, establish Statement of Work (SOW).

· Direct the internal development of new business by defining customer expectations, investigating material, and processing options, selecting internal or external equipment, planning, and execution of all product development projects. Emphasis on quality products, BOM’s, process routings. specifications, product/process compatibility, meeting customer expectations, and due dates.

· Consults with senior management team members, especially CSO, Sales, and Customer as necessary.

· Collaborate with Quality, Operations, Sales, and other relevant departments to ensure smooth and seamless product development with on-time, on budget, product launches.

· Responsible for product development and project management team members.

· Develops and assigns project timelines and budgets, including routine updates to clients and internal personnel.

· Ensure that assigned products/projects are developed in compliance with relevant regulatory requirements and within guidelines established by the customer.

· Ensure direct reports manage their time and resources to ensure accurate and timely completion of projects and critical non-project tasks.

· Oversee internal and external activities related to new product development and continuous improvement of existing products.

· Attends nutritional conferences, product development seminars and other continuing educational events related to the dietary supplement industry.

· Visits customers, suppliers and other industry related service providers that enhance the company’s ability to increase satisfaction, service, or performance to our clients. Focusing on providing “next level”, world class customer experience.

· Assure direct reports receive proper training and attend continuous improvement and personal development education seminars/classes.

Requirements & Qualifications:

· Bachelor of Science in food science, biochemistry, a related discipline or equivalent experience preferred.

· 5 years of project management experience, experience with product development related to dietary supplements or pharmaceuticals highly preferred.

· 3 or more years of experience in product development in a GMP regulated environment preferred.

· Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to contribute solutions on multiple ongoing projects.

· Ability to be creative, proactive and an innovative thinker.

· Willing to accept or create new ideas and focused on improving products.

• Ability to interact effectively with all departments, company, or customer associates in a team-oriented manner.

· Proficient with Microsoft Office.

· Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Function efficiently in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to meet strict deadlines.
• Excellent work history, attendance, initiative and drive to succeed.
• Maintain excellent communication and relationships with others; be a team player; maintain a positive attitude.
• Perform in a manner consistent with Company Vision, Operating System, and Core Values.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person